Pakistan dominated the proceedings on the first day of the two-day warm up match against SLC Board XI on Tuesday at Hambantota.

After a brilliant bowling performance that saw them dismiss the SLC Board XI for a total of 196 runs, Pakistan's opening batsmen, Imam ul Haq and Abdullah Shafique, capitalized on the team's strong bowling display and carried the momentum forward with a solid start to their innings. 

Imam ul Haq played a patient innings, scoring 36 runs off 75 deliveries, while Abdullah Shafique contributed with 25 runs off 44 balls. However, it was Shan Masood who stole the limelight with an aggressive intent, scoring a quick-fire 83 runs off just 66 balls, which included nine fours and three sixes. His aggressive approach put the Sri Lankan bowlers under immense pressure and allowed Pakistan to accumulate runs at a brisk pace.

At the end of the day's play, after 35 overs, Pakistan had amassed a score of 160/3 in 37 overs, with Babar Azam not out on 14* (33) and Saud Shakeel on 0*. The Pakistani batsmen displayed remarkable resilience and determination, ensuring that their team finished the day in a strong position.

Earlier, Shaheen Shah Afridi, who will be making his return to Test cricket after a year, opened the bowling for the Men in Green.

While Hassan Ali and Shaheen picked up three wickets each, it was Oshada Fernando who helped his team to a respectable total with his gritty innings. Facing a formidable bowling attack, Fernando displayed immense resilience and determination, refusing to succumb to the pressure. He played each ball with great caution, carefully selecting his shots and exhibiting superb technique.

Fernando's skillful batting led him to reach a well-deserved milestone as he scored a century.

Aamer Jamal provided much needed breakthrough as he removed the centurion Oshada Fernando for 109. Jamal and spinner Abrar Ahmed with two wickets each.

Both sides are allowed to use all members of their squads during the match.

Pakistan Squad

Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi and Shan Masood

SLC Board Squad

Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Oshada Fernando, Sadun Weerakkody, Kamidu Mendis (c), Ahan Wickremasinghe, Nipun Dananjaya, Nuwanidu Fernando, Lakshitha Marnasinghe, Praveen Jayawickrwme, Shashika Dulshan, Kavishka Anjula, Milan Ratnayake, Asanka Manoj, Mohammed Shiraz

Schedule of Pakistan’s Test tour of Sri Lanka:

16-20 July – First Test at Galle International Cricket Stadium

24-28 July – Second Test at Singhalese Sports Club, Colombo