Rawalpindi:Debutant Tayyab Arif scored a brisk half-century to propel Pakistan to 137-2 at lunch on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Pindi Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the 20-year-old Arif made an impressive 57, forming a solid 86-run opening stand with Azan Awais, who scored 30. After Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl on the green-top pitch, the partnership set a strong foundation for Pakistan.
At the lunch break, Pakistani captain Babar Azam was undefeated at 31, while another debutant, Mohammad Taha, remained not out on 15. Azam, aiming to end his 40-innings century drought, hit four boundaries to stabilize the innings despite some tense moments.
Arif, in his first-class debut season, hit nine boundaries and a six in his 51-ball knock. Sri Lanka, fielding four pacers and no frontline spinner, gained their first wicket in the 16th over when Milan Rathnayaka had Awais caught behind by Kusal Mendis. The score reached 90-2 as Asitha Fernando got an edge from Arif to Mendis, providing Sri Lanka some relief.
Additionally, allrounder Arafat Minhas and pacer Saqib Khan are also making their Test debuts for Pakistan.