Sri Lanka staged a resolute comeback against Pakistan on Day 3 of the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis delivering match‑saving centuries.
After Pakistan declared their first innings at 434/9, Sri Lanka faced a steep challenge. Early wickets reduced the visitors to 12/2, but De Silva and Mendis combined patience and skill to steady the innings.
Dhananjaya de Silva Leads Sri Lanka’s Recovery
De Silva assumed an anchoring role, blending solid defence with well‑timed assaults. He reached his century under pressure, delivering the stability Sri Lanka needed after the early setbacks. His innings was pivotal in shifting momentum, as Pakistan’s bowlers had taken early breakthroughs through Mohammad Abbas and debutant Saqib Khan.
Dhananjaya de Silva brings up his 14th Test hundred #PAKvSL #DhananjayaDeSilva pic.twitter.com/zuhynn8WDn
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 11, 2026
De Silva remained unbeaten on 152 from 220 deliveries, compiling 17 boundaries. His knock lifted Sri Lanka to a far stronger position than the previous day’s total.
Kusal Mendis Smashes Maiden Test Century as Captain
Mendis also played a crucial role in the revival. The skipper displayed composure against Pakistan’s bowling, rotating the strike efficiently and capitalizing on loose deliveries. He reached his first Test century as captain, scoring 152 runs with nine fours and three sixes.
11th Test Ton. First as Captain.
A dream start to his captaincy! Kusal Mendis scores a brilliant Test ton in his very first game as skipper! #PAKvSL pic.twitter.com/1vvtfkPjTD
— Sri Lanka Cricket (@OfficialSLC) November 11, 2026
De Silva and Mendis’s fourth‑wicket partnership of 234 runs stifled Pakistan’s attempts to take regular wickets, forcing the hosts to work hard for each breakthrough. Their resilient stand underscored the patience and concentration required to rebuild after early deficits.
