Pakistan Dominate First Test as Four Batters Score Fifties Against Sri Lanka
Pakistan made a strong start to the first Test against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday, November 9, 2026. Half-centuries from debutants Tayyab Arif and Mohammad Taha, captain Babar Azam, and Saud Shakeel helped the hosts reach 281-5 at stumps before bad light ended play early.
After Sri Lanka elected to bowl first, Pakistan’s opening pair, Azan Awais and Tayyab Arif, immediately put the visitors under pressure. Both batters played attacking cricket, finding boundaries regularly and building a promising 86-run partnership.
Tayyab impressed on his Test debut with an aggressive 57 off just 51 deliveries, including nine fours and a six. However, Sri Lanka fought back when Milan Rathnayake dismissed Azan for 30. Shortly afterward, Asitha Fernando removed Tayyab, leaving Pakistan with two quick setbacks.
Captain Babar Azam then joined fellow debutant Mohammad Taha to rebuild the innings. Their partnership added 69 valuable runs and helped Pakistan maintain control.
Babar completed his 35th Test half-century, scoring 50 from 58 balls with seven boundaries. His innings ended when Dilshan Madushanka dismissed him, reducing Pakistan to 159-3.
Saud Shakeel joined Taha and helped stabilize the middle order. The pair added another 68 runs, taking Pakistan beyond 200.
Taha continued his impressive debut, reaching his maiden Test fifty before departing for 51 off 105 balls, including six fours. His patient innings provided important support during a crucial phase.
Shakeel remained composed despite the dismissals around him. He registered his 12th Test half-century and continued building Pakistan’s total.
Salman Ali Agha contributed 16 before being dismissed, while Ghazi Ghori finished unbeaten on seven.
At the close, Saud Shakeel remained not out on 57, with Pakistan comfortably placed at 281-5.
The opening day’s performance has given Pakistan a solid foundation, with the hosts hoping to build a commanding first-innings total when play resumes.
