Younis steers Pakistan out of trouble

Veteran batsman Younis Khan hit an unbeaten 133 to steer Pakistan out of trouble on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka here on Wednesday.

The tourists, electing to bat in overcast conditions, slumped to 56-3 before Younis’ rescue act helped them recover to 261-4 when bad light ended play two overs early at the Galle International Stadium.

The 36-year-old middle-order batsman, who came to bat in his 90th Test at 19-2, hit 11 boundaries and a six in his 24th century. Only Inzamam-ul Haq (25) has more Test hundreds for Pakistan.

Skipper Misbah-ul Haq, making a typically dour but determined 31, put on 100 for the fourth wicket with Younis before he was caught behind off left-arm spinner Rangana Herath.

Asad Shafiq ensured the effort did not go waste as he saw off the second new ball to help Younis add 105 for the fifth wicket, himself returning unbeaten at close on 55.

Younis was given a reprieve by the Decision Review System when he was on 59 after umpire Bruce Oxenford had declared him leg-before to off-spinner Dilruwan Perera.Television replays showed the ball pass over the stumps.

The partnership between Younis and 40-year-old Misbah came after Sri Lanka dominated the morning session with three quick wickets.