Pakistan reaches 281 with debuts in first Test against Sri Lanka
Pakistan batters Tayyab Arif and Mohammad Taha made impressive debuts as Pakistan reached 5-281 on day one.
Tayyab, aged 20, scored an aggressive 57 off 51 balls while Taha showed grit with 51 off 105 deliveries on a greenish wicket. Captain Babar Azam scored 50 off 58 balls and Saud Shakeel remained unbeaten on 57.
Pakistan raced to 2-137 in the first 30 overs before Sri Lanka struck back with three wickets. Sri Lanka's bowling coach noted 63 balls beat the bat, but Pakistan remained slightly ahead.
Tayyab was fast-tracked to Test cricket after an impressive domestic season.
- 57 off 51 balls
- Tayyab's debut score
- 20
- Tayyab's age
- 51 off 105 deliveries
- Taha's debut score
- 63
- Balls beat the bat
Why it mattersTwo new Pakistan batters impressed on debut in a competitive Test, signalling fresh depth in the batting lineup.
AustraliaNo direct Australian impact yet, but strong debuts from Pakistan's new batters could influence Asia-Pacific cricket balance if they maintain form in future tours of Australia.
