Saud Shakeel Bags Rare Record With Sensational Ton vs Sri Lanka in Galle
Saud Shakeel in action [Twitter]
Riding on Saud Shakeel's magnificent century, Pakistan have made a remarkable comeback in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. In response to Sri Lanka's first innings total of 312, Pakistan had a torrid start to their innings, losing four wickets with only 73 runs on the board.
Although former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed got a decent start, his departure in the 21st over left the visitors reeling at 101 for five. However, Saud Shakeel and Agha Salman steadied the ship, stitching a priceless 177-run stand for the sixth wicket and taking their side closer to the Lankan first innings score.
Agha Salman missed his century, being dismissed for an impressive 113-ball 83, while Shakeel completed a commendable ton, his first on overseas soil and second in the purest format. Also, the stylish southpaw became only the fifth batter in history to score a at least a fifty in each of his first six matches.
Since debuting in December last year, Shakeel has established himself as a vital cog in Pakistan's Test setup. Although he has played some delightful knocks at home, an overseas century, which came under immense pressure, speaks volumes for his incredible ability.
As of writing, Pakistan are well on course of gaining a first-innings lead, placed at 283 for six, with Shakeel and Noman Ali batting on 103* and 2*, respectively.
 "Debashis Sarangi")
