Centuries from Azhar and Shehzad frustrate Lankans
Centuries by openers Azhar Ali and Ahmed Shehzad put the Patron's XI in a dominant position against the Sri Lankans on day one of their tour game in Karachi
Cricinfo staff
17-Feb-2009
Centuries by openers Azhar Ali and Ahmed Shehzad put the Patron's XI in a dominant position against the Sri Lankans on the firstday of their tour game in Karachi. The Sri Lankans had a tough day in the field, using eight bowlers to try and contain the hosts, who scored 395 for 4 in the allotted 90 overs.
The 251-run stand between Azhar and Shehzad gave the Patron's XI a terrific start before Farveez Maharoof ended Azhar's five-hour-long innings, having him caught off Tharanga Paranavitana for 100. Shehzad scored at a much faster rate than Azhar, taking 174 balls for his 146, which included 22 fours and one six, before he was forced to retire hurt.
Shahid Afridi chipped in with a quick 29-ball 49 before he became Ajantha Mendis' sole victim of the day. Chaminda Vaas and Tillakaratne Dilshan also picked up a wicket each. The Sri Lankans' most expensive bowlers were Thilan Thushara and Suranga Lakmal, who went wicketless for 69 runs each in their 11 overs.
With this being a 90-overs-a-side game, Sri Lanka will have an opportunity to get some batting practice before the first Test, which starts on Saturday.