Australia vs India – An absorbing Day 1 signals what is in store

The much-awaited Gavaskar-Border Trophy between the two sides who are in similar phase of their progress as Test sides started with a keenly contested first day at MCG. It is almost Australian-bowling-versus-Indian-batting contest, but the team which takes the pressure better may turn out to be the winner of this 4-match series.

Match Report – 1^st Test: Day 1, Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Melbourne Cricket Ground, 26-30 December 2011

The much-awaited Boxing Day started with light drizzle but there was pleasant sunshine when the two captains strolled out to the middle for the Toss. For Australia, Ed Cowan made his debut, while Shaun Marsh replaced Usman Khawaja. Ben Hilfenhaus too made a come back. India went with Ashwin and preferred Virat Kohli and Umesh Yadav for the starting Eleven. Zaheer Khan was back with a hope to complete a tour Down Under in his third attempt.

On a green, moist pitch, Michael Clarke decided to bat first, a move that surprised many. Ishant Sharma and Zaheer Khan got the ball to move and zip on a helpful pitch, but Australian openers weathered the storm admirably. Ed Cowan was ultra cautious but Warner lashed onto any opportunity that came along. His huge six off Yadav over midwicket was a special one as Australia seemed to grab the initiative.
 
After a brief rain-stoppage, Yadav took his revenge, with hosts on 46. He deceived Warner with another short one, but this was higher and towards the body, which the batsman could only glove as far as Dhoni. Shaun Marsh came and went quickly without disturbing the scorers, as he nicked Yadav behind in his next over. Ricky Ponting looked in good touch, and before another drizzle halted the play, Australia were hopeful of a decent partnership. They were 68 for 2 at Lunch.

The rain delayed the start post Lunch, but Ponting and Cowan were into the thick of things right away. Boundaries flowed freely after Lunch as Australia crossed hundred and gained the momentum back. Ponting reached his 50 first but had a couple of nervous moments against Ishant and Yadav. Would Punter break the century jinx? The question was answered soon when Yadav surprised Ponting with a sharp back-of-a-length ball which ended in Laxman’s hands in the slips. His attractive 62 runs were laced with 6 boundaries.

The 100-plus runs stand between Ponting and Cowan had put the Indians on the back foot. Clarke continued the trend - Cowan playing safely as the Captain tried to score runs. Zaheer was brought back for an important spell with the old ball as Australia moved past two hundred. He had immediate success by getting two in two, bringing his team at par, with a bang.

Clarke played on for 31, while Hussey was extremely unlucky to be given out caught behind, although he had sleeved the ball while trying to back away. Indians, nonetheless, were ecstatic. It soon became 214 for 5, when Cowan’s dogged vigil came to an end and that again was an unfortunate dismissal. He was given caught behind off Ashwin but HotSpot did not show any edge. He made 68 on debut with 7 fours.

Brad Haddin (21*) and Peter Siddle (34*) put on unbeaten 63-run 7^th wicket stand to end the day on a high for Australia. But at the end of the day, it was India who had their noses slightly in front on a wicket which traditionally is a good batting track.

Umesh Yadav confirmed he belonged there, by picking up three important wickets, while ZAK too made a good come back to the side. Ponting would have loved to have a hundred under his belt in order to quash the doubts over his Test future, but after today’s knock one feels he will get one soon. Ed Cowan made an inspiring debut, but Warner would have liked to go on after the start he got.

A score of 350-plus will give the home side a chance to put strong Indian batting line-up under pressure. Indians, however, would hope to wrap up the lower order cheaply tomorrow.  


Summarised Scores:

Australia 277/6 (Cowan 68, Ponting 62; Yadav 3/96) on the first day

Heroes of the Day: Umesh Yadav, Ed Cowan

Flop of the Day: Ishant Sharma

Disappointment of the Day: Absence of UDRS

Complete Scorecard

Credits: AP (Image), CricketArchive.com (Scorecard)

Bangladesh vs Pakistan – Pakistan make light work of the hosts to win series 2-0

Bangladesh were white-washed on the final day of the second and final Test as Pakistan strolled to victory under gloom after hosts were dismissed cheaply before Tea. Overnight pair of Nasir and Mushfiq fought bravely and denied Pakistan any wicket until after Lunch when they imploded with the fall of Nasir's wicket.

Match Report – 5^th Day: 2^nd Test, Shere Bangla National Stadium, 17-21 Dec 2011

Play, expectedly, again started late on the final day due to murky conditions. Nasir Hossain and Mushfiqur Rahim defied Pakistan opening pair of Umar Gul and Aizaz Cheema bravely in the first crucial hour. Nasir gave a tough chance but both hung on admirably as they continued good work against the spinners too.

Nasir looked even more confident after reaching his fifty, as he nudged along well hitting an odd boundary from time to time. Mushfiqur Rahim, on the other hand, was all defence and a model of concentration. At Lunch, Bangladesh were sitting happily on 200 for 5 with two sessions to go. They had a lead of 62 and with 5 wickets remaining; a draw was still on the cards, if not a win.
 
It was Abdur Rehman, the wily, persistent, hard-working left-armer, who produced a magic delivery to get rid of stubborn Nasir. He failed to read the arm ball which crashed into his stumps leaving the batsman and the crowd stunned. He made a fighting 79 with 11 fours. His wicket opened the flood gates as, a little later, Mushfiq got himself out playing a rash shot against the same bowler, after making a dogged 53.

Younis then took a one-handed stunner to remove Shahadat, while Ajmal foxed Elias Sunny off a doosra. Bangladesh were eventually all out for 234, a disappointing total after a good partnership in the middle. They would have wished to bat on for about an hour more, as prospects of an early finish were there under foggy skies. Abdur Rehman was the pick of the bowlers with 4 for 51.
Pakistan needed to make just 103 in about 40 overs, but they had to ensure they play quickly enough to avoid being deprived of an easy win due to bad light.

Strangely but probably due to approaching Tea, Hafeez and Taufeeq started sedately. Upon instructions from Balcony Taufeeq tried to manufacture a stroke, in order to get quick runs, but his uppish drive off Nazimuddin was held by the mid wicket fielder.

Azhar Ali and Hafeez then changed the mode positively and scored quickly afterwards, playing some innovative strokes. Hafeez, who relishes these sorts of scenarios, was aggressive of the two but perished just short of a fifty with a handful of runs to go. Younis got quick singles and hit a swept six to hasten the end.

Azhar Ali lost his stumps in trying to finish with a six when three runs were needed, but captain cool, Misbah-ul-Haq ended the match and the series by lofting Sunny for the winning six two balls later. It was a fitting end to a successful year for Team Pakistan.

They won the match by 7 wickets, and series 2-0. Although Bangladesh fought well in this match, they still have to sort out their problems in batting and fielding if they are to compete against better sides in Tests.


Summarised scores: 

Pakistan 470 (Taufeeq Umar 130, Misbah 70; Shakib 6/82) and 107/3 (Hafeez 47, Azhar 34; Elias Sunny 1/7) beat Bangladesh 338 (Shakib 144, Nafees 97; Cheema 3/73) and 234 (Nasir 79, Mushfiqur 53; Abdur Rehman 4/51) by 7 wickets


Series: Pakistan win 2-0

Man of the Match: Shakib Al Hasan

Man of the Series: Younis Khan

Complete Scorecard

Credits - Scorecard (cricketarchive.com), Image (AFP)

Bangladesh vs Pakistan – Match evenly poised at stumps on Day 2

Pakistan hurried the end of Bangladeshi innings after breaking a decent partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib. Then despite losing Hafeez cheaply, they had progressed to 87 by the premature close of play. The wicket continued to ooze runs.

Match Report – 2^st day: 2nd Test, Played at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 17- 21 December 2011

After another delayed start, Bangladesh continued the good work on the second day as well, as Shakib and Mushfiqur saw the Lunch safely. Pakistan bowlers toiled hard but could not breakthrough despite some anxious moments and a couple of close LBW shouts.

Just when Pakistan looked down and out, Bangladesh handed them a crucial wicket. Mushfiqur Rahim’s dreadful indecision in running cost Shakib his wicket as he left furious after scoring a brilliant 144 which included 15 fours. A double from him was surely on the cards. Mushfiq then edged behind on the next ball from Gul to hand advantage back to Pakistan again. He made 40 but the two quick wickets gave Pakistan much needed headway.

Saeed Ajmal then polished the tail off in a hurry. They had collapsed from 305/5 to 338 all out, the innings ending much the same way as it had started. Gul and Cheema got three scalps each while two wickets fell to Ajmal and run outs.
 
Mohammad Hafeez and Taufeeq Umar started positively, but Nazmul Hossain got Hafeez on the first ball on his come back after seven years. It was a chance missed by in-form Hafeez on a belter, but Taufeeq and Azhar Ali cashed in. They scored at 4 an over initially but as the light faded and day approached they resorted to defense.

Pakistan were 87 for one when bad light stopped play. The wicket promises a run fest and Pakistan would look to post a mammoth first innings score to put the hosts under pressure, as they did in the first Test. Bangladesh, on the other hand, need to take advantage of the early morning dew and haze tomorrow.


Summarised Scores:

Pakistan 87/1 (Taufeeq 44*, Nazmul 1/28) trail Bangladesh 338 all out (Shakib 144, Nafees 97; Cheema 3/73) by 251 runs with 9 wickets in hand in the first innings

Hero of the Day: Shakib al Hasan

Disappointment of the day: Mushfiqur Rahim

Bangladesh vs Pakistan – Shakib and Nafees take honours on day 1

Bangladesh showed some character when they fought back after suffering from another top order collapse on the first day of the second and last Test match. Shakib and Nafees put on 180 runs for the 5^th wicket keeping Pakistan’s fancied bowling attack at bay.

Match Report – 1^st day: ^2nd Test, Played at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 17- 21 December 2011

Pakistan went into the Test unchanged, while hosts made two changes, bringing in Nazmul Hossain and Robiul Islam for Rubel and Ashraful. On a wicket having a tinge of grass, Misbah chose to bowl as he often does. After a delayed start for an hour, Aizaz Cheema and Umar Gul bowled brilliantly using the new ball well to reduce the hosts to 43 for 4.

Nazimuddin, who made a promising debut at Chittagong, left a sharp in cutter from Aizaz and was given out although it hit him a touch high. Tamim’s vows continued and after a scratchy 14 perished hooking Gul aimlessly in the lap of Cheema. Aizaz Cheema, who was getting the ball to talk, got another one to nip back sharply crashing into the stumps through bat and pad as Mahmudullah erringly played back.
 
Cheema was mainly bringing the ball in to the right-handers but he got Nasir Hossain with a one that left him a touch and keeper Adnan Akmal made no mistake. At Lunch, Bangladesh were 54 for 4 and another disappointing batting collapse looked on the cards. With the sun coming out, wicket had eased up considerably as both Shahriar Nafees and Shakib Al Hasan proved after the break.

Shakib eased into his innings with three fours in one over of Cheema while Nafees waited for the spinners to come before he opened his arms. Both batsmen were in their 60s when Tea approached, after completing a 100-run partnership. Aizaz bowled his heart out on a pitch that had become lifeless but Nafees and Shakib neutralised his every trick. Gul and Cheema resorted to hostile short pitch bowling but did not get any breakthrough.

Shakib completed his second Test hundred off 159 balls that included 14 hits to the boundary. It was a delightful knock and he had given Bangladesh batting much needed lift. Shahriar Nafees, on the other hand, was looking all set to notch up his century, second of his career. But Umar Gul tested him with a snorter that he failed to leave. The ball touched his gloves through to the keeper as Nafees walked away dejectedly for 177-ball 97 runs with 12 fours.

Shakib’s innings was full of enterprising shots on both sides of the wicket. On occasions he danced down the track against spinners and hit through the line. Nafees thrived on shots square of the wicket. He swept the spinners well and pulled both Gul and Cheema admirably.

Mushfiqur started with a boundary and along with Shakib, not out on 108, ended the day with his team sitting nicely for the first time in the series. Bad light curtailed the play once again. Pakistan would look to restrict Bangladesh to manageable total come the second day, while hosts’ hopes of a large score will rest on how this pair bats.


Summarised Scores:


Bangladesh 234/5 (Shakib 108*, Nafees 97; Cheema 3/52)

Hero of the Day: Shakib Al Hasan

Disappointment of the day: Saeed Ajmal

Bangladesh vs Pakistan – Bangladesh thrashed again and white-washed

Pakistan extended their unbeaten run against Bangladesh to 22 matches as they thrashed the hosts again, lifting the Cup 3-0. On a spinning track, Pakistan’s batsmen posted enough runs on board to put pressure on struggling Bangladesh batsmen who faltered miserably yet again.

Pakistan tour to Bangladesh: 3^rd ODI, Played at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chittagong, 6 December 2011

It was a dead rubber but not for the hosts who were desperate for a win. On a sluggish pitch and a lucky venue for Bangladesh, Pakistan opted to bat first. Shoaib Malik kept his place as Imran Farhat made way for Asad Shafiq at the top of the order. Abdur Rehman also got a game as Pakistan dropped Sarfraz Ahmad and brought in Sohail Tanvir.

Shafiul Islam got rid of Hafeez in the first over, while Shakib ended Asad’s painstaking stay with a beauty that went past his bat to shatter stumps. Younis, who was fluent after a sluggish start, was undone by Abdur Razzak for 26.
 
From 39 for 3, Misbah and Umar Akmal took the score to 133 in the 36^th over. Both played sensibly and built a nice platform for the lower order to have a go at the end. But the plan went wro9ng miserably as Misbah got out in the first over of the batting powerplay for 47. Shoaib Malik’s miserable come back continued as he gave return catch to Razzak two balls later to make it 133/5.

Onus was on well set Umar Akmal to shepherd the remaining innings along with Shahid Afridi. The loss of Afridi, to give Elias Sunny his first ODI wicket, raised Bangladesh’s hopes of restricting Pakistan fewer than 200, but the real jolt followed in the next over.

Umar hit a thumping four off Nasir Hossain to bring his fifty which he celebrated by dancing down and lofting him for a huge six. Elias came back and Umar gave the charge again, forgetting he turned the ball the other way as compared to Nasir. The result was a simple stumping and a bewildered Akmal walked back dejectedly. He had made the match and then thrown away the advantage himself, a trait that is threatening to belittle his career.

Bangladesh spinners then blew away the lower order, getting Pakistan out cheaply for 177 with almost 4 overs to spare. Mahmudullah was the chief destroyer taking last 3 wickets for just fours runs in 7 balls he bowled. Abdur Razzak and Shakib Al Hasan both gave away just 21 runs apiece in their allotted quota and took 3 and 1 wicket each. Umar Akmal was the top scorer with 57 off 84 balls with 3 fours and 2 sixes.

Bangladesh openers entered the ground for a short while before dinner break in front of an expectant crowd. Mohammad Hafeez silenced by knocking Tamim Iqbal out on the very first ball. Shahriar Nafees and Mahmudullah took Pakistan bowlers on and their positive intent lifted Bangladeshi spirits again.   

Their stand of 69 in just under 19 overs put Bangladesh on course for a win but what followed epitomizes their approach to international cricket of late. After Shahriar was trapped in front by Saeed Ajmal, skipper Mushfiqur Rahim made the same fatal blunder of playing a sweep without reaching to the pitch of the ball against Abdur Rehman. Mahmudullah, top scorer with 35 was also trapped LBW by a sharp turner from Hafeez.

Hafeez then foxed Shakib who gave him a return catch and when Nasir departed cheaply to make it 83 for 6, Bangladesh had lost 5 wickets in 14 balls. The match had turned on its head in a matter of 6.3 overs. Ajmal was bowling ultra miserly while Shoaib Malik polished the tail off in spectacular fashion to hasten hosts’ slide. They were all out for a paltry 119 with 12 overs to spare.

The hosts crashed to a heavy 58-run defeat, and that too after looking favourites at one stage. Malik and Hafeez both took 3 scalps each, for 6 and 27 runs respectively. Ajmal’s figures read: 7 overs, 4 maidens, 6 runs and 2 wickets.


Summarised scores: 

Pakistan 177 all out in 46.1 overs (Umar Akmal 57, Misbah 47; Mahmudullah 3/4) beat Bangladesh 119 all out in 38 overs (Mahmudullah 35; Shoaib Malik 3/6, Hafeez 3/27) by 58 runs
Pakistan win the series 3-0

Man of the Match: Umar Akmal

Man of the Series: Umar Akmal


Photo credit: AFP

Spot-fixing Case – Amir! Its time to act, not think

Will ashamed and hurt Mohammad Amir divulge more names?

 

Mohammad Amir, who has been sentenced to imprisonment for 6 months in spot-fixing case, has decided to put his career and life on edge by revealing all what he knows about the menace of match-fixing. He was talking to a Geo News reporter in young offenders institution in London.

After hearing the verdict, his lawyer has announced they would appeal after careful deliberations. But Mohammad Amir, aged 18, is clearly upset at what unfolded during 20-days hearing at CPS courtroom. He had pleaded guilty, along with the agent Mazhar Majeed before the hearings started.

Although Judge dismissed Amir’s claims that it was a one-off incident on his part, saying he was in contact with Majeed before and after the Lord’s Test, he acknowledged his decision to plead guily and apologise. Amir had apologised through written statement submitted to the court.

He apologised to the people of his country and cricket lovers all around the world. He regretted the fact that he failed to accept the blame much earlier saying, “I did not find the courage to do it at the beginning”.
 
“I got myself into a situation I did not understand. I panicked and did the wrong thing I did not bowl the no balls for money. I got trapped, and ultimately it was because of my own stupidity.”

In a moving scenario, he described how excited he was when he got to wear his Pakistan shirt for the first time. He remembered how fondly he continued to wear the shirt for hours and watched himself in mirror repeatedly, before removing it reluctantly while going to sleep so that it does not get ruined by sleeping.

The thing that might have slapped his conscious and self must be the accusation made by Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif and their councils. During the Trial, both Butt and Asif laid blame on Amir that he was the main culprit who conspired with Mazhar Majeed. They claimed prosecution's evidence suggested guilt on the part of Amir as he had pleaded guilty along with Majeed.

Chief prosecutor Jafferjee had remarked, “In reality for the purpose of this trial, the sacrificial goat has become Amir."

While giving judgment, Judge Cooke said to Butt; “I consider that you were responsible for involving Amir in the corruption – an 18 year old from a poverty stricken village background, very different to your own privileged one, who, whilst a very talented bowler, would be inclined to do what his senior players and particularly his captain told him, especially when told there was money in it for him and this was part of the common culture.”

He acknowledged Amir’s stand by saying; “You have pleaded guilty to the same two offences as those of which Asif has been convicted. I give you full credit for that plea, which the Prosecution accepts was entered at the first real opportunity. Following the ICC arbitration in Doha, where you contested the allegations, you made it clear to the cricket authorities that you accepted your responsibility for what you had done, despite the situation in which you found yourself where, it seems, activity such as this was widespread.

"You have referred, in material presented to the court, to threats to yourself and your family, saying that there are significant limits to what you can say in public. The reality of those threats and the strength of the underworld influences that control unlawful betting abroad is shown by the supporting evidence in the bundle of documents, including materials from the Anti Corruption and Security Unit of the ICC.”

The dejected Amir must have found time to reflect conscientiously on the events of the past 15 months. A boy, just 17, rose from a village named Changa Bagial and in few months earned wealth and fame many of his countrymen can only dream of in their life times. He soon shifted to a posh locality of Defense in Lahore. His lack of education, improper guidance from PCB and seniors, team culture, influence of seniors and greed made him fall from grace as rapidly as he had risen.

A common cricket fans in Pakistan asks, “Amir! Yar yeh kya ker diya? – Amir! What have you done?” The bubbly young boy who became, in a short span of time, one of world’s fearsome bowlers has inflicted heartache to millions of his fans. He was described as being more talented than Wasim Akram by none other than Imran Khan. A legend like Michael Holding cries for him on TV. But the man himself choses greed over dignity. What a shame1 What a loss!

Will he open up for the sake of the game, and himself, and reveal all that he may have knowledge of, so that the gentleman’s game is eradicated of corruption once for all? This is the question that can risk his life and career even further, but there is also a possibility of redemption for the ultra-talented but disgraced youngster.

He has lost his pride, his earnings and his career, but he still has one opportunity to restore all that, at least in part. In the coming days, cricketing authorities will surely unearth more of the unseen in the fixing mafia, but if Amir comes forward and offers his help, he may still be remembered in a positive way.

Spot-fixing - Court moved in Pakistan for registering case against cricket cheats

Pakistan News: The petitioner prayed to the court after a Lahore police station refused to file an FIR >

Muhammad Faisal, a resident of Lahore, today filed a petition in the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Anjum Raza seeking an order for Faisal Town police to file a criminal case against the convicted cricketers for their involvement in fixing and tarnishing country’s image.
The SHO of the Faisal Town police station did not pay heed to Faisal’s complaint, forcing the petitioner to seek court’s intervention. The Judge has ordered SHO to give his comments to the court by November 4.

His plea was based on the fact that the act of the tainted cricketers not only spoiled nation’s repute but also caused disappointment to millions of their countrymen. As per PPC (Pakistan Penal Code), the disgraced trio can be tried because any citizen who commits crime abroad is liable to litigation in Pakistan.


Credit: Reuters (image)

Spot-fixing Trial – Salman Butt, Asif, Amir and Mazhar Majeed sent to jail

It is learned from the court hearing the spot-fixing trial that Judge Cooke has sentenced the three players along with their agent Mazhar majeed to jail for various terms.He has also declared that only a jail sentence will suffice to the players, keeping in view the seriousness of the crime.

'Your motive was greed, despite the legitimate income and rewards on offer in salaries and prize money. Your crimes are so serious that only imprisonment would suffice", the Judge said. 

Mazhar Majeed, player’s agent, was the first one to get sentence from the Judge. He was awarded 2 years and 8 months in jail. Then he turned to Salman Butt, who after contesting his case fiercely had begged for mercy yesterday, and remarked, "It is clear to me that you were orchestrator of this whole activity". He told him that although you were involved in fixing before Lord's Test, he would punish him only for the crime committed in that match.

Then he sent Butt to jail for 2 and half years. Butt, almost motionless looked up to listen, "You did terrible thing". He then announced that Asif will get 1 year imprisonment. Mohammad Amir got just 6 months in jail, but later Judge clarified that as Amir was 19, he would be sent to young offenders institution. Judge appreciated his 'courage' in pleading guilty. 

He then announced that all of them will have to serve half of their terms in jail before being relaesed on licence.
 m
'The News of the World' did not get their money back as Judge declared that they got what they had bargained for. 

In the end, Justice Jeremy Cooke ordered each of the defendants to pay the cost of Prosecution as follows:

Amir          £9,389      -       payable forthwith (amount already in police possession)

Asif           £8,120       -      ditto

Butt          £30,937     -      ditto

Majeed     £56,554     -      payable within 6 months

In-depth – Dissection of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I squad

Pakistan selection committee, headed by its interim chairman Mohammad Ilyas, has announced a balanced squad to face Sri Lanka in the Limited Overs’ leg of the tour in UAE. Shahid Afridi’s meeting with the new PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf, later joined by Ilyas too, bore fruit as he made another international comeback.

Misbah-ul-Haq, regarded as saviour due to his role in stabilizing Pakistan cricket, continues to lead the side. Although he has done exceptionally well in the longer format and his presence has given stability to Pakistan cricket, he does not seem to be a long term prospect. This is because by playing both ODI and T20 cricket, his ageing body will have to bear extra burden which can affect his Test performance, which Pakistan can ill afford.

It will be ideal if he continues to perform and remains fit till the next world cup in 4 years time, but it will be a risky business to bank on. Further, with the passing day he is turning into a hit-or-block type of player, which was clearly evident in the Mohali setback. It will be a dreadful scenario if Misbah bows out suddenly, due to whatever cause, ahead of the world cup with no back-up captain groomed. PCB should have named a vice-captain for the sole purpose of grooming him for the future.

For this purpose, I see three candidates around – Abdul Razzaq, Mohammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali.
Abdul Razzaq wad dropped after the world cup on the basis of his performance. It was injustice to a senior player who was not given a proper chance in any of the WC games. He had won Pakistan a match single handedly a few months prior to the WC. Although his bowling has gone down, he still has it in him to serve Pakistan for a few years as being 32, age is still behind him. Being a cool customer and having vast experience, he can be entrusted with captaincy responsibilities.

For some, it was ideal time to give chance to some one like Hammad Azam, who is bowling faster than ever and batting with responsibility in domestic circuit.

Mohammad Hafeez is one player who has improved most in the last couple of years. His batting technique has become solid and bowling effective in all forms of the game. Because he puts thinking behind his game, he is known as ‘professor’ in the team. He surely has ability to become a good captain in future.

In my opinion, Azhar Ali should have been given a chance in the ODI ahead of Shoaib Malik. It is an open secret how Malik made his way into the team. In the last series against Zimbabwe, Malik failed miserably. Azhar Ali has been wrongly labeled as a Test player. He has a good List A record and has all the shots and talent to succeed in limited version too. He could easily be thought of another captaincy candidate for Pakistan, but for that some one needs to be a deputy to Misbah first.
 
Selection of Imran Farhat seems to be a compromise, although Farhat batted well in the last two matches he played for Pakistan. But he is not the man for the opening slot in the long run. 

Ahmed Shehzad had issues with his attitude but that can be solved and a bright talent can be saved. The way Awais Zia has performed in domestic T20s; he should have been given a chance, at least in the T20 side. Ramiz Raja, after two failures, has been dumped.

Asad Shafiq not only can bat solidly, he can hit boundaries when required. Pakistan should think to give him opportunity to open in the limited version. Umar Akmal, after a forced break to improve his attitude and appetite towards his game, is back again. He is an important cog in the wheel as far as middle order is concerned. He should try not to become another Afridi, because he has talent and strokes to transform himself into a match winner.

Younis Khan and Misbah will make a solid middle order. The return of Sarfraz was expected after his sprightly showings in the ongoing Quaid-e-Azam trophy, where he has scored a couple of hundreds so far. Adnan Akmal has been solid behind the stumps, but his batting in ODIs was never up to the mark. Sarfraz is the best keeper in Pakistan at the moment and this time he should grab the opportunity with both hands once for all.

Selection of Abdur Rehman is perplexing as Pakistan already has Saeed Ajmal, Afridi and Hafeez in that department. Instead of him, selectors should have groomed Raza Hasan who is being ignored unfairly. Wahab Riaz, in short span of time, had become a threatening ODI bowler and his exclusion cannot be solely due to cricketing reasons. Renewed suspicions over his involvement in spot-fixing means he is out for the foreseeable future, unless he is declared clean.

Umar Gul, Junaid Khan and Aizaz Cheema are automatic selections. Tanvir Ahmed has disappeared much the same way he had arrived on the scene. There is a big question mark over Sohail Tanvir’s fitness. After coming into force of new rules whereby two balls will be used from both ends, he can prove handy with his swing. He can now swing the bat better than ever and can be a handy lower order batsman.

The form shown by pakistan so far makes me convinced that pakistan should win the ODI series against Sri Lanka comfortably. 


My Prediction: 

ODIs 3-2 to Pakistan

T20I 1-0 to Pakistan

Pakistan squad: 

Misbah-ul-Haq (C), Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Imran Farhat, Younis Khan, Umar Akmal, Sohail Tanvir, Shoaib Malik, Sarfraz Ahmed (wk), Saeed Ajmal, Abdul Rehman, Umar Gul, Aizaz Cheema, Junaid Khan.

My playing Eleven:  

1- Hafeez 2- Asad Shafiq 3- Younis, 4- Misbah 5- Umar Akmal 6- Abdul Razzaq 7- Afridi 8- Sarfraz 9- Umar Gul 10- Junaid Khan 11- Ajmal

Bangladesh vs West Indies – Bishoo’s five take Windies to series win

Bangladesh either had to play out the day or score 344 runs to win the match. With defense not their cup of tea, they chose the other path but fell short miserably. West Indies continued to probe and Bangladesh continued to falter on the last day of the second and last Test. The result was obvious, a big win for the visitors and heartbreak, yet again, for the hosts.

Match Report – Day 5: 2^nd Test, at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 29 Oct - 2 Nov 2011

Bangladesh’s hopes of a miracle were dashed just in the third over of the day when Tamim got out to Bishoo after adding just a single to his overnight 82. To a fuller wider delivery, he charged down to hit into the covers but nicked straight to Sammy in slips. The third umpire confirmed the edge was clean and Bangladesh were again up against it.

Mushfiqur Rahim was going along smoothly as Shakib joined him. He too did not opt for defense and showed positive intent from the outset. After a stand of 88 runs between the two, Shakib got out to Sammy after scoring his second 50 of the match. Devendra Bishoo, who was causing trouble with his guile, got Rahim out with a classical leg break. He was earlier reprieved by the umpire against the same bowler.  He made 69 with the help of 9 fours.
 
Bishoo then hurried Bangladesh’s slide by getting three quick wickets soon after Lunch. They all burst in joy when Kemar Roach shattered the stumps of Rubel Hossain, the last man. West Indies won by a big margin of 229 runs. Bishoo was the star for Windies, as he took his first 5-fer in Tests.

This is first overseas series win for Windies in almost 9 years, and a first away Test win in 4 years. But they have a much tougher job ahead when they land in India for their next series. Bangladesh too will have to improve if they are to give Pakistan, their next hosts, a tough time.


Summarised Scores:

West Indies 355 all out (Kirk Edwards 121, Kieran Powell 72; Shakib al Hasan 5/63 Nasir Hossain 3/52) and 383/3 (Darren Bravo 195, Kirk Edwards 86; Shuvo 3/73) beat Bangladesh 231 all out (Shakib 73, Fidel Edwards 5/63) and 278 all out (Tamim 83, Mushfiqur Rahim 69; Bishoo 5/90) by 229 runs

Hero of the Day: Devendra Bishoo

Disappointment of the Day: Tamim Iqbal

Man of the Match: Kirk Edwards

Man of the Series: Shakib Al Hasan

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Credits: AFP (photo), CricketArchive (scorecard)

Spot-fixing – Lalit Modi and his tweets

Lalit Modi: Umpires and administrators are hand in glove with players for fixing matches >

Lalit Modi, deposed IPL commissioner has accused administrators of the game as well as umpires of being involved in spot-fixing. Shortly after the verdict of the spot-fixing trial was announced in London, he started tweeting on the subject on his twitter account.

His first tweet was: “Spot Fixing is a Major major issue. All know about it. Not much is done thou about it. Things keep getting swept under the carpet.” He then claimed that the current case was just the tip of the iceberg and many incidents were never reported.

Shortly afterwards he tweets: “Persons involved in Fixing should be completely banned from participating any kind of professional sport.”
 Chr
His next tweet was regarding his knowledge of spot-fixing and that why he was in no position to reveal the information he had. “I can't talk much at the moment on this issue - as I am being sued by a Player - in the UK courts on my raising the issue of match fixing. But soon the matter will go to court and we can expect many revelations about the way some players fix the matches.”

In one of his interesting tweets he asks those journalists who want to investigate further to consult the records of ‘Chris Cairns vs Lalit Modi’ case. He said: “Media needs to go into depth about match fixing and the modus operandi and why Administrators in certain cases stopping investigations or look the other way.” He continues: “It is worst form of corruption. It makes everything else look Pale.”

In his most startling revelation he tweets: “Its not only Players That fix matches - Sometimes there are Umpires Too in connivance with Administrators. Again ..these reports are buried.”

He described the verdict as the turning point and will give a strong message to those who play and manage the game. Then he gave credit to media and judiciary criticizing ACU (Anti-corruption Unit of ICC) between the lines: “Let's not forget its the media that unearthed this spot fixing scam and not the anti corruption units. and it is the independent judiciary that has pronounced the verdict. Media can help in highlighting such issues and hopefully help in ending this type of fixing.”

Before signing off, he shared a link about how Salman Butt’s family reacted on the verdict, without giving any opinion of his own.

Lalit Modi himself is facing charges of corruption regarding alleded malpractice while he was commissioner of IPL in the first 3 editions.

Spot-fixing Trial – Haroon Lorgat says verdict won’t change ICC bans

ICC News: ICC officially responds to jury’s verdict >

ICC, in its first official response to the verdicts announced by the jury at Southwark Crown Court, has said that these will not have any impact on the length of suspensions handed to Butt, Asif and Amir. Amir had already pleaded guilty, while Asif and Butt were charged with the charges of conspiring to cheat and conspiring to obtain and accept illegal money.

Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive, said: "These outcomes appear to be consistent with the findings of the independent anti-corruption tribunal which was appointed earlier this year to hear charges brought against the three players by the ICC under our own Anti-Corruption Code. To be clear, the developments in the English criminal courts will have no impact upon those periods of suspension, which will remain in full force and effect.”
 
He further added: "The ICC takes no pleasure from the fact that these players stepped outside not only the laws of the game but also the criminal laws of the country in which they were participating. In addition to constituting offences under the ICC's Anti-Corruption Code, for which sporting sanctions have been imposed, such conduct has now been shown to constitute criminal behaviour for which serious criminal sanctions can also be imposed."

He concluded that: "but we hope that this verdict is seen as a further warning to any individual who might, for whatever reason, be tempted to engage in corrupt activity within our sport.”

The trio was accused of bowling pre-determined no-balls in the Lord's Test in August 2010, in allegedly criminal association with their Mazhar Majeed.

Spot-fixing Trial – Amir had already pleaded guilty before the trial

Pakistan News: UK law prevented the news to be published earlier >

As the news of Butt and Asif being found guilty by the jury came out, Amir’s confession was officially released for media. In his written statement, Amir implored that he was under "extreme pressure” of losing his place in the side if he did not side with Butt and co.

His application was presented to Southwark Crown Court on September 16, while Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. Under the United Kingdom's laws Amir's plea could not be published in order to prevent any influence on the jury’s ruling on the other two players.

Amir’s case now will be heard directly by the judge Mr. Cooke, called ‘Newton Hearing’, who will decide what punishment to be awarded to him.
 
Amir’s lawyer barrister Ben Emmerson QC said: "Amir wants to make it clear he wants to take full responsibility for what he did by bowling two deliberate no-balls. This vulnerable 18-year-old boy, as he was then, was subjected to extreme pressure from those upon whom he should have been able to rely. He recognises the damage he has caused Pakistan cricket and he wishes to do his best to put that right."

Prosecution’s response, lead by chief prosecutor Aftab Jafferjee QC, was that Amir looked like a willing conspirator as opposed to being a naïve rookie. This was because his text matches regarding fixing purposes were recovered by the police that were sent to two different cell phones with Pakistan numbers. According to the evidence put forth by the prosecution, there were numerous contacts between Majeed and Amir 36 hours prior to the Lord’s Test match.

Bangladesh vs West Indies – Bravo misses double hundred but West Indies in sight

With just one day remaining, Bangladesh still require 344 runs with 7 wickets in hand to pull off an unlikely victory. West Indies extended their lead to 507 after Darren Bravo narrowly missed his double hundred.

Match Report – Day 4: 2^nd Test, at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 29 Oct - 2 Nov 2011

Roach did not last long as the 4^th day started, holing out in the deep. Any chance of Bangladesh running through West Indies vanished as soon as Chanderpaul entered the arena. Darren Bravo was not having any trouble on a wicket which had gone flatter and against a bowling which was toothless. Chanderpaul, after having eyes settled, pushed the score along in a hurry.

He took Rubel on in an over getting three boundaries on both sides of the wicket. Bravo reached 150 on stroke of Lunch, which he celebrated after the break by thumping Nasir over long-off. Both marched on with declaration approaching, as Bangladesh fielders looked on in despair.
 
After hitting two lovely sixes, each of Shakib and Shuvo, he perished going for the 3^rd to reach double hundred. His innings of 195 off 297 balls with 12 fours and 5 sixes was a masterpiece. With his departure, West Indies declared the innings on 383 for 5. Bangladesh were given an improbable target of 508 runs, a world record.

Tamim started positively, but after getting a life he settled down and looked to play the ball on merit. Imrul Kayes was given out in the slips off Fidel Edwards after several replays. After a few quiet overs, Tamim opened his chest and caressed Roach for three in one over. Sammy sent Nafees back to pavilion after accepting a return catch gleefully, as Tea was taken immediately.

Tamim was batting well but needed good support from the other end as Raqibul joined him. Tamim, after a period of sound defense, opened up again, hitting Bishoo for a back-driven four followed by a straight six. After a few anxious moments and a 51-run partnership, Raqibul was on his way after handing Sammy a simple catch in the slips off a jubilant Samuels. 

Sipper Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim played out the day safely. With the score on 164 for 3 and a day left, Bangladesh still need 344 runs – a daunting task.


Summarised Scores:

Bangladesh 164/3 (Tamim 82*) and 231 all out (Shakib 73, Fidel Edwards 5/63) trail West Indies 355 all out (Kirk Edwards 121, Kieran Powell 72; Shakib al Hasan 5/63 Nasir Hossain 3/52) and 383/3 (Darren Bravo 195, Kirk Edwards 86; Shuvo 3/73) by 344 runs with 7 wickets remaining in second innings

Hero of the Day: Darren Bravo

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Credits: AFP (photo), CricketArchive (scorecard)

Spot-fixing Trial - Breaking news: Salman Butt and Asif found guilty, face jail sentence

Both Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif have been found guilty of conspiracy to accept corrupt payments and guilty of conspiracy to cheat by the jury conducting criminal investigation against the pair in London.

Salman Butt was found guilty on both accounts in the initial stages, while Asif was found guilty of conspiring to cheat initially, but for the other charge, jury had to deliberate for about 3 hours to reach the decision. A unanimous decision was given on the charge of conspiracy to cheat, while jury was split to 10-2 in favour labelling them involved in conspiracy to obtain and accept corrupt payments.

The 12-member jury was headed by Judge Justice Cooke, and this is 2o^th day of the trial. The unanimous nature of the verdict was welcomed by the Crown Prosecution Service.
The final verdict, including that regarding Mohammad Amir who had pleaded guilty at the start of the trial on October 4, will be announced by Mr. Cooke on wednesday and thursday, till then both players will be on bail. The maximum sentence for cheating is two years, while for accepting illegal money, it is upto 7 years.
 
Although Mohammad Amir and Mazhar Majeed, trio’s agent, had forwarded written explanations pleading guilty of the charges, both Butt and Asif had denied. The trio was accused of bowling pre-determined no-balls in the Lord's Test in August 2010, in allegedly criminal association with their Mazhar Majeed.

Salman Butt’s wife, meanwhile gave birth to their second child half an hour before the verdict.
Matt Horne of the CPS said: ""All I want to say that this is cheating pure and simple. They let down everyone that bought a ticket and they let down children when they were role models to those very children who are playing such a special game. I think we all look forward to this game being played in its truest spirit as we go forward from these types of issues. I also acknowledge the role that investigative journalism has played in this case." 

Both Asif and Butt showed no emotions as the Judge announced the verdict. 

Bangladesh vs West Indies – Windies on course after Bravo’s maiden ton

West Indies took a sizeable 124-run lead as Bangladesh were dismissed early on the third day. By the close of play they had extended it to 331 with 7 wickets remaining. With two days to play, Bangladesh have a monumental task ahead and only rain or a miracle can save them from defeat.

Match Report – Day 3: 2^nd Test, at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 29 Oct - 2 Nov 2011

Overnight pair of Nasir Hossain and Suhrawadi Shuvo denied kept West Indies at bay for about an hour as Sammy opted for a double spin attack after just one over from Edwards. Devendra Bishoo then cleaned up the tail by taking last three wickets. Nasir made a patient 42.

West Indies’ start of second innings, after a huge first innings lead, was disastrous but ideal for the home team. Brathwaite was run out in the first over by a direct hit from Naeem. Soon after Lunch, Bangladesh were celebrating again as Kieran Powell perished to Shakib playing a loose shot. Darren Bravo joined first innings’ centurion Kirk Edwards and chose to play aggressively.

After hitting Shakib for a massive six, he took on Nasir Hossain collecting two fours and a six off his over. Edwards, on the other hand, was playing his customary defensive role although he too flexed his muscles by thumping shahadat over his head for maximum. Bangladesh gave two lives to Bravo when first Rahim and then Kayes spilled easy chances. The misses proved costly as Bravo moved to 50 and beyond.
 
Kirk Edward’s fairytale Test start continued as he brought up his 50 with a classical cover drive. Tea arrived with West Indies on 133 for 2. Both batsmen played without any further resistance from Bangladesh as the lead grew to threatening proportions. Kirk Edwards missed a chance to score second hundred in the match, as he was bowled by Shuvo for 86 just before Stumps.

Bravo went on to score his maiden Test hundred, off just 165 balls with 7 fours and 2 sixes. Bangladesh needs to skittle the opposition tomorrow as early as possible otherwise they will have to rely on weather to save them, which too looks unlikely to help them.


Summarised Scores:

West Indies 355 all out (Kirk Edwards 121, Kieran Powell 72; Shakib al Hasan 5/63 Nasir Hossain 3/52) and 207/3 (Darren Bravo 100*, Kirk Edwards 86) lead Bangladesh 231 all out (Shakib 73, Fidel Edwards 5/63) by 331 runs with 7 wickets remaining in second innings

Hero of the Day: Darren Bravo

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Credits: AP (photo), CricketArchive (scorecard)

Bangladesh vs West Indies – Fidel Edwards destroys Bangladesh

Match Report – Day 2: 2^nd Test, at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 29 Oct - 2 Nov 2011

After posting a decent first innings total, West Indies were on top of Bangladesh thanks to a ferocious opening spell by Fidel Edwards. The home team recovered well after being 59 for 5, but still there is a gaping gulf between the two sides.

West Indies started the day cautiously but confidently and it was Marlon Samuels who took the initiative to move the score along with couple of good shots for four. Kirk Edwards looked edgy as he neared his hundred. He was dropped by the keeper off Nasir as soon as he entered nineties. After getting life he hit two crushing fours to reach 98 in the same over.

As Shuvo flighted the ball, Kirk Edwards ceased the moment by jumping down and getting to his second Test ton – in 3 Tests – with a lofted four. With partnership between these two going strong, Nasir lifted Bangladesh by removing Samuels with a lovely return catch. Samuels made 48.

From 319 for 6, West Indies slumped to 355 all out as Shakib al Hasan ran through the tail. He dismissed Carlton Baugh and Captain Sammy in the space of three balls, latter being hit wicket in a bizarre fashion. Edwards was eventually out for 121, his highest Test score, soon after Lunch. He hit 14 fours and 2 sixes in a 273-ball knock and was given LBW to Shakib.

Bangladesh needed to have a bright start and it seemed so when Tamim Iqbal started hitting his customary boundaries. After hitting three fours against Kemar Roach, his uninhibited flurry was halted by Fidel Edwards. As he deflected a quick rising delivery towards leg, Bravo leapt in the air to snatch at short leg. It was a bad start by the hosts which could have become even worse had West Indies hung on to two catches in gully, one each off Edwards and Roach.

Shahriar Nafees then perished in a similar fashion to Tamim as Fidel Edward was proving a handful for them. Imrul meanwhile continued to try his luck by playing freely, hitting Roach for a four and a six. But Bangladesh soon were reeling at 59 for 5 as Edwards’ menacing burst continued. He was on hat-trick at one stage after dismissing Raqibul Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim with two contrasting balls. Raqibul was set up for a fuller ball while Rahim feather a rising one to the first slip.

Imrul Kayes eventually succumbed to his indiscretion for 29 as Bangladesh were clueless against the pace and aggression of Fidel Edwards who had taken all five wickets to fall. After starting aggressively, Shakib played for Tea as possibility of an ignominious follow on loomed.

After reaching 50 in 46 balls, he came hard on Sammy whom he carted for three fours in an over. With Naeem Islam giving him good company, Bangladesh’s hopes were revived for a decent total. But that hope took a massive blow when Devendra Bishoo went through Shakib’s bat and pad. He made an entertaining 73 off 74 balls with 9 fours.

Nasir got an early life when Sammy spilled a sitter, but then he and Naeem made good recovery for their team as batting became easier with the older ball. They shared a fighting stand of 52 for 7^th wicket and at one stage looked to close in on the day on high. But unnecessary run out of Naeem Islam in the last over of the day spoiled the show. Naeem made 45 while Nasir was unbeaten on 34 at stumps, coming at numbers 7 and 8 respectively.

The day belonged to West Indies and particularly Fidel Edwards whose pace and bounce troubled Bangladeshi top order, giving his team an edge which might prove decisive in the end.


Summarised Scores:

Bangladesh 204/7 (Shakib 73, Fidel Edwards 5/58) trail West Indies 355 all out (Kirk Edwards 121, Kieran Powell 72: Shakib 5/63) by 151 runs with 3 wickets remaining in the 1st innings

Hero of the Day: Fidel Edwards

Flop of the day: Mushfiqur Rahim

Disappointment of the Day: Tamim Iqbal

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Credits: AP (photo), CricketArchive (scorecard)

Bangladesh vs West Indies – Openers make it Windies' day

Match Report – Day 1: 2^nd Test, at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, 29 Oct - 2 Nov 2011

Openers gave West Indies an early edge by posting an exact 100 after Sammy had opted to bat first. Bangladesh squared the honours somewhat by claiming three wickets in the last session through their spinners. Left-arm slow bowler Elias Sunny, who debuted in the last match, was out injured making way for another southpaw to make debut, Suhrawadi Shuvo.

Lendl Simmons’s back injury meant another chance for Kieran Powell, while Kemar Roach came in for Ravi Rampaul who was hamstrung. The wicket was bare and batting friendly, but promised a balance of power between spin and seam.  

After a cautious start against Shahadat Hossain and Rubel Hossain and then Shakib Al Hasan, who was brought as early as 6^th over, Powell opened his arms by hammering two back-to-back fours off Shahadat to relieve some pressure. On a flat deck, Bangladesh relentlessly continued to bowl on a tight line and length keeping Windies in check.

Braithwaite, in particular, and Powell then hit a few crispy shots for four as Lunch approached with the pair unbeaten on 88. There were no real scares for them in the morning session. Although Bangladesh bowled well, their use of short balls was met with ease by the batsmen as the pitch had no pace in it.

Braithwaite, after reaching his 50, played a loose shot and lost his wicket, caught at Gully off Rubel. Powell went into a shell but new man Kirk Edwards started positively, hitting Rubel for two pulled fours. Edwards had a scare against Shakib but survived a close stumping call.

Powell, who had reached his 50, was looking set for a big one as Bangladesh was running out of ideas. After getting a life at 71, when Rahim dropped a sitter off Naeem Islam, Powell was cleaned up by Shuvo a run later for his first Test scalp. His 72 came off 150 balls with 10 fours.

At 160 for 2 at Tea, West Indies were ideally placed as real batting strength was yet to come. Darren Bravo did not last long as he fell LBW to Nasir Hossain for 12. Chanderpaul came at number 6 and nudged along as usual. Kirk survived an open run out chance as Nasir’s throw went too wide.

Edwards celebrated his 50 by launching Nasir for a straight six. The new ball was taken an over late and was thrown to Nasir after Shahadat had bowled an over with it. The move reaped fruit as Chanderpaul edged his first ball behind to a delighted Rahim. Shakib then disturbed the stumps of nightwatchman Kemar Rach but Edwards and Marlon Samuels ended the day safely with West Indies on 253 for 5.

West Indies would look to extend their lead towards 350 at least before they have a go at Bangladesh. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will try to bundle them out as early as possible so that their spinners could come into play in the second innings if their batsmen are able to give them a sizeable lead.


Summarised Scores:

West Indies 253/5 (Powell 72, Edwards 71*; Nasir Hossain 2/31) at Stumps on day 1 against Bangladesh

Hero of the Day: Kirk Edwards

Flop of the day: Shiv Chanderpaul

Disappointment of the Day: Shahadat Hossain

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Credits:AP (photo), CricketArchive (scorecard)

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka pull off morale-boosting draw

Match Report – Day 5: 1st Test, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi (neutral venue), 18 - 22 October 2011

The much anticipated final day turned out to be a near farce as Pakistan opted to play safe in the end. Sangakkara and Prasanna played gems to help their team come to level terms before quick fall of wickets left Pakistan to chase 170 in 21 overs. The result, however, was a disappointing draw.

Umar Gul and Aizaz Cheema started proceedings for Pakistan but got nothing off the wicket or in the air. Apart from Gul having a confident LBW shout against Sangakkara and a run out opportunity, there was nothing to cheer for Pakistan in the morning session. Junaid again impressed with his variations and determination. The match has been a break out one for him as he has been below par in international cricket so far.

At Lunch, Sri Lanka had extended their lead to 50 and Sangakkara (185*) and Prasanna Jayawardene (66*) were not looking to get out any time soon. Prasanna was let off soon after the break when Hill refused a plumb LBW. Cheema bowled a couple of stunning deliveries more but Sri Lanka kept Pakistan away successfully to the point that frustration was visible on the faces.

Sangakkara got to his 8^th double hundred by glancing Cheema down the leg. He took his guard again, a dreadful gesture for the fielding team. It was a great back-to-the-wall knock, especially after his first 100 runs when he was in total command.
Prasanna Jayawardene too was celebrating a while later as he lofted Ajmal to bring up his hundred, a match-saving effort with his captain.

With match running away from Pakistan, it was Azhar Ali who brought some life by trapping Sanga LBW, his first Test wicket. He made a magnificent 211 off 431 balls with 18 fours. Pakistan needed to blow away Sri Lankan tail, but Rangana Herath was dropped by Gul at extra cover – 6^th drop by Pakistan in the innings.

Aizaz Cheema removed Prasanna with a beauty that left him to get an edge as the 3^rd new ball was taken. His innings of 120 was vital for his team as along with Sangakkara he had added 201 runs for the 6^th wicket. Cheema would have had Welegedara too but Rod tucker turned down the LBW appeal.  

Gul, who was not given the new ball this time, came on to knock off Welegedara and Lakmal quickly before Pradeep was run out. Sri Lanka were all out for 483, leaving Pakistan 170 to chase in just 21 overs. Umar Gul was the most successful bowler with 4 for 64.

On a wicket that had improved with each day, Pakistan should have gone for the target by playing in the T20 mode, at least initially before opting for safety. Disappointingly they chose to shut the door early by showing no intent what so ever.  Taufeeq fell to Welegedara before the match was called off with mutual consent of the captains 11 overs before time.

The match which started on a high note for Pakistan ended up boosting Sri Lanka’s morale as they were the team who got most of the accolades on the final day. After defying Pakistan in the second innings, they made sure the match, which should have been won by Pakistan, ended in a draw.

The next Test starts in four day’s time in Dubai and both teams have some time to think about their weaknesses. Pakistan needs to inject some intent in their batting and improve their fielding which has once again denied them a Test win. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, have some genuine concerns in their bowling department.

Summarised Scores:

Pakistan 21/1 and 511/6 dec (Taufeeq Umar 236, M Hafeez 75, Misbah 46; Herath 3/126) drew with Sri Lanka 197/10 (Mathews 52*; Junaid Khan 5/38) and 483 all out (Sangakkara 211, Prasanna Jayawardene 120; Umar Gul 4/64)

Man of the Match: Kumar Sangakkara

Heroes of the Day: Kumar Sangakkara and Prasanna Jayawardene

Disappointment of the Day: Saeed Ajmal

Flop of the Day: The pitch

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Credits: cricketArchive.com (scorecard), AP (photo)