Rawalpindi: The first Test of the ICC World Test Championship series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka concluded in a draw after five days of competitive play. Both teams demonstrated resilience, but neither could secure a decisive victory on the final day of the match.

According to International Cricket Council, Pakistan began the final day at 57/1 with a 45-run lead, ultimately reaching 284/8 in their second innings, ensuring Sri Lanka did not have a chance to bat again. Early in the day, Pakistan faced setbacks with the dismissals of Azan Awais and Mohammad Taha, taken by Sri Lankan bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Asitha Fernando, respectively.

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, contributed 34 runs before being dismissed by Milan Rathnayaka, who was instrumental in Sri Lanka's bowling attack, finishing with figures of 3/47. Salman Agha added 13 runs to the scoreboard before departing, while Ghazi Ghori provided a valuable 35-run contribution. Saud Shakeel was a standout performer for Pakistan, narrowly missing a century, falling at 97 to Kumara.

Sri Lanka's bowlers were persistent, with Kumara and Fernando each claiming two wickets. Earlier in the match, Pakistan declared their first innings at 434/9, with Sri Lanka responding robustly, posting 446 and gaining a 12-run lead thanks to centuries from Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis.

Saqib Khan, making his Test debut, took seven wickets and was named Player of the Match. The series will continue with the second Test scheduled to begin on November 17 in Rawalpindi.