SHARJAH, Oct 27: It was a mismatch with Pakistan well and truly whipped by a professional Sri Lankan team in a totally one-sided affair by seven wickets in the Khaleej Times Trophy here at the Sharjah Stadium Saturday.
A total of 176 to overhaul on a placid wicket was never going to be testing one barring a sensational collapse which never materialized as Pakistan’s over-rated attack except Wasim Akram posed few problems to the Sri Lankan batsmen.
The only bright spots for Pakistan in the field was Wasim Akram who bowled his heart out but was desperately unlucky not to be amongst wickets.
While the bowling lacked penetration the buttered fingered fielders also compounded the problems. Sanath Jayasuriya was dropped by Shoaib Malik in Waqar Younis’ third over.
Aviskha Gunawardena, who enjoyed a charmed life especially during Wasim Akram’s opening burst, too was put down by Saeed Anwar in the 60s. Later named Man-of-the-Match, Gunawardena was eventually dismissed for 88. He slammed 13 fours and faced 122 balls.
Pakistan on this performance will have to improve beyond recognition to even beat the current ‘whipping boys’ Zimbabwe tomorrow to make next Sunday’s final.
