August 9, 2009
Umar’s maiden ton helps Pakistan secure first victory
An impressive maiden century by Umar Akmal and a five wicket haul by Iftikhar Anjum helped visitors Pakistan to a 146 run victory in the fourth ODI over Sri Lanka. The younger Akmal remained unbeaten on 102 runs of just 72 deliveries. Akmal along with Younus Khan put on 176 run stand and also broke the Pakistani record of the highest fifth wicket stand. The surpassed the previous record of 155 by Mohammad Yousaf and Younus.
Younus Khan won the toss and elected to bat, but Pakistan was soon in trouble at 130-4. Then came Umar at the crease and crafted an excellent revival of the innings and scored a magnificent ton. He had excellent support from his captain who played a role of an anchor making 89 runs of 111 deliveries. Elder of the Kamran brother’s Kamran also contributed 57 runs as he opened the Pakistani innings. Pakistan managed to set an excellent target of 321 runs with the lost of 5 wickets in there designated 50 overs. It was also a sad day for the Lankan spear head bowler Malinga as he conceded 26 wides.
Lankan batting was a disaster, as Mahela Jayawardene was bowled out at 19. Sangakkara did try to revive the Lankan innings but he was also sent back to the pavilion at a score of 80. Tharanga was the only one to offer resistance with a score of 80 runs but after his dismissal all chances of Lankans coming back in the match were over. Lankan team was all out in 36.1 over and could just manage a score of 175.
Umar Akmal was awarded the man of the match. Post this win Pakistan has been able to restore some pride as this was there first victory in the current series. Sri Lanka leads the series 3-1.
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Filed Under: Cricket
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