Cricbeat

A gutsy maiden century from Azhar Ali took Pakistan to 281-4 at the end of the 2nd days play in the 2nd test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Stadium.

The 26-year-old Ali was well supported by veterans Younus Khan (55) and Misbah-ul-Haq (40 not out) after Pakistan lost both openers in the morning session and were uncertain at 64-2.

After the loss of the opening pair Azhar and Younus saw Pakistan to lunch at 95-2 and pushed Pakistan into the ascendancy in the second session. Azhar got to his 50 first, sweeping Herath fine for his sixth boundary. 

Younus Khan was far more emphatic in reaching his landmark, hitting Dilshan over the midwicket ropes for a huge six. But Dilshan provided the Lankans the breakthrough just before tea when Younus dragged on as he tried to cut a sharp turning off-break

After Younis's departure Azhar found another sound partner in Misbah after the break and they put on a stand of 94. Azhar progressed confidently until he entered the nervous nineties. The magical moment finally came when the Lahore right-hander got a fine tickle on a sweep and scampered two, celebrating his achievement by holding both arms aloft before sinking to his knees to offer Sajda.

But Azhar couldn't add to his score as Dilshan claimed him to a questionable lbw decision just before close as he swept again. TV replays indicated Azhar got a big inside edge on the delivery.

Pakistan closed the days play leading Sri Lanka by 42 runs heading into the third days play.