On this day, January 20,2014: Pakistan made the fastest chase of 300 plus total in Test cricket by chasing down 302 in 57.3 overs against Sri Lanka in Sharjah. They won the match and drew the series 1-1. It was a terrific effort as Sri Lanka began the final day of the match on 133/5 but lost their last five wickets for just 25 runs as were bowled out for 215. Pakistan had a target of 302 and they had 59 overs left in the day. Everyone thought this game was likely going to be a draw but since Pakistan were trailing 1-0 in the series, they made a brave effort to go for the chase and a miracle happened. Azhar Ali scored 103 and under fading light in the last stages of the game, Misbah ul Haq hit the winning runs as they chased down the target and won the match by five wickets.
This win was achieved with mere nine balls left in the day and this was Pakistan’s second highest ever chase in Test cricket after the 315/9 against Australia in Karachi long back. Pakistan captain Misbah was the star as he smashed unbeaten 68 of just 72 balls. This was also Pakistan coach Dav Whatmore’s farewell Test as his contract was going to be expired.
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Sri Lanka were batting first in this third Test match and scored a massive 428/9 before declaring. Dilruwan Perera was the top scorer with 95 and Matthews scored 91. In reply, Pakistan were bowled out for 341 in the second innings and gave away a lead to Sri Lanka. As this was the third and final Test and with Sri Lanka already leading 1-0 in this series they played really slow in the third innings to ensure they at least get a draw.
Sri Lanka scored 214 runs in the third innings from 101 overs and even batted on Day 5 to ensure Pakistan do not have enough time in the chase. They set a target of 302 and Pakistan chased it down in 57.3 overs to seal a remarkable win. It was a highly entertaining Test match.
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