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The Pakistan team found themselves in an uphill battle, needing 419 runs to win the second Test in Galle against Sri Lanka on the final day. Before bad light forced early stumps on Day 4 (July 27), Imam Ul Haq (46*) and Babar Azam (26*) held the fort for the visitors and took them to 89/1 after Sri Lanka set a mammoth target of 508.
The match is now poised for an intriguing finish as Sri Lanka need nine more wickets on the fifth day to level the two-match series 1-1. Pakistan can win the series even if they draw the game by surviving the final day's play.
However, a win would boost Pakistan's standing in the WTC points table, which might tempt them to go for the kill if they get off to a good start in the morning session.
Fans react ahead of the final day's play
Pakistan cricket fans observed the game on the fourth day and expressed their views through social media platforms. Few felt that the match was out of bounds for Pakistan and that a special knock from skipper Babar Azam could save it.
Some were not optimistic about a positive result and opined that Pakistan's performance levels have degraded compared to the first Test. Here are some of the best reactions:
Dhananjaya de Silva's 109 lifts Sri Lanka to 360/8 on Day 4 against Pakistan
Batting all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva's ninth Test century assisted Sri Lanka in reaching 360/8 on Day Four before they declared the innings, setting a steep target of 508. Dimuth Karunaratne (61) and Ramesh Mendis (45) were the perfect foil to de Silva, chipping in with crucial knocks.
Ramesh Mendis will now have an even bigger role to play for the hosts on the final day with the ball. The Lankan team management will be expecting an encore of his first-innings performance, where he starred with a five-wicket haul.
Do you guys think Pakistan will look to chase the target or try for a draw? Sound off in the comments section.
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Poll : Will Pakistan win?
Yes
No
118 votes
