Rawalpindi: Sri Lanka is aiming for a substantial first innings lead in the opening Test against Pakistan, as Kamindu Mendis and his teammates target victory in the ICC World Test Championship match. Kamindu contributed a crucial half-century on the third day, while Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis led the charge with unbeaten scores of 167 and 117, respectively, allowing Sri Lanka to reach 404/4 at stumps, trailing Pakistan by just 30 runs.

According to International Cricket Council, Kamindu emphasized the importance of the first session on Thursday, noting that if the current batsmen can extend their partnership, it could set the stage for a significant lead. "We are in a good position," Kamindu stated. "The first session tomorrow will be crucial, so if these two set batters can continue and give us a good lead, then we can go to the next step."

The Rawalpindi pitch has offered little help to bowlers from both sides, heightening the importance of runs. Kamindu noted that a decision on declaring Sri Lanka's innings remains pending, though he anticipates that the pitch might favor spinners and fast bowlers later in the match.

Pakistan's Mohammad Abbas was the only bowler to dismiss a Sri Lankan batsman on Wednesday, claiming Kamindu's wicket. However, he acknowledged the challenge posed by the Sri Lankan batsmen. "We put up a lot of effort but credit to the Sri Lankan pair on batting so confidently," Abbas remarked. "We need to get them out quickly for a fightback."

The series continues with the second Test scheduled from November 17 to 21 in Rawalpindi.