Prasad takes four as SL need 153 to win second Test against Pakistan

Seamer Dhammika Prasad claimed four wickets to put Sri Lanka on top in the second Test here yesterday despite a defiant century from Azhar Ali

Colombo: Seamer Dhammika Prasad claimed four wickets to put Sri Lanka on top in the second Test here yesterday despite a defiant century from Azhar Ali.


Dhammika Prasad (right) celebrates a wicket yesterday 

Pakistan, who trailed by 177 on the first innings, were bowled out for 329 in their second knock by tea on the fourth day to leave the hosts a target of 153 runs to level the three-match series.

But heavy rain washed out play in the final session, setting the stage for an absorbing final day on a wearing P Sara Oval — provided the forecast of more bad weather proves wrong. Pakistan won the first Test in Galle by 10 wickets.

Azhar scores ton
Azhar anchored the Pakistan innings with a watchful 117, his ninth Test century, but found little support at the other end as the last six wickets tumbled for 55 runs.

Wicket-keeper Dinesh Chandimal pouched five catches and also brought off a stumping, while debutant fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera claimed three wickets in an impressive Sri Lankan display in the field.

Azhar was reprieved twice during his marathon vigil that lasted eight hours and 33 minutes, in which he faced 308 deliveries and hit just six boundaries.

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