Shakeel hits maiden double century in Tests

Saud Shakeel hit his maiden double century in Tests as Pakistan stretched their lead to a dominant 149 against Sri Lanka on day three of the rain-hit opening match, AFP reported.

Sri Lanka bowled out the tourists for 461 in the final session after a frustrating ninth-wicket stand of 94 between Shakeel, who remained unbeaten on 208, and Naseem Shah, who made six off 78 balls.

The 27-year-old Shakeel, who is playing his sixth Test, ruled as he cut Dhananjaya de Silva for a boundary to bring up his double century to a standing ovation.

“When Naseem Shah joined me, he said that there’s a chance for me to go for the double hundred,” Shakeel told reporters after the marathon knock.

“A lot of credit to him for backing me and not letting me panic.”

The hosts ended the day on 14 for no loss after bad light stopped another rain-affected day.

Sri Lanka still trail Pakistan by 135 runs in their second innings.

Nishan Madushka, on eight, and skipper Dimuth Karunaratne, on six, were batting at close of play.