Pakistan Shaheens secured a comprehensive 7-wicket victory over Sri Lanka A in the first unofficial Test at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series on Wednesday.
After choosing to field first, Pakistan A's bowlers dominated Sri Lanka A’s first innings, dismissing them for just 115 runs. Kashif Ali was the standout performer, claiming a remarkable five wickets for 31 runs, while Khurram Shahzad supported with four wickets for 32.
Only Pasindu Sooriyabandara (28) and Sonal Dinusha (30) made notable contributions for Sri Lanka A.
In response, Pakistan A posted 258 in their first innings, with Ali Zaryab scoring 55 runs. Hussain Talat (56) and Rohail Nazir (55) also contributed with solid knocks.
Despite strong bowling from Vishwa Fernando, who took four wickets for 44, Sri Lanka A's bowlers struggled to break through the Pakistan A middle order.
Sri Lanka A’s second innings saw a much-improved performance, with the visitors posting a total of 364. Ahan Wickramasinghe (53), Pasindu Sooriyabandara (64), and Wanuja Sahan (73) were the key run-scorers, while Khurram Shahzad was again Pakistan A's best bowler, claiming 5 wickets for 70 runs.
Set a target of 222 to win, Pakistan A achieved it comfortably with 222/3 in 53 overs. Ali Zaryab's unbeaten 83 and Mohammad Suleman's 86 guided the hosts home, with Haider Ali’s blistering 19 not out ensuring there were no late hiccups.
Sri Lanka A's bowlers, despite some tight spells, were unable to defend the target.
