Spinners help Pakistan restrict Sri Lanka to 256 in fourth ODI

A decent and economical bowling performance from the slower bowlers, provided with good support from the fielders, helped Pakistan to restrict Sri Lanka to 256 in the fourth ODI of the five-match series at Premdasa Stadium in Colombo.

Sri Lanka struggled against the trio of Yasir Shah, Imad Wasim and Shoaib Malik, who conceded just 108 in 24 overs, while the quicks chipped in with the wickets.

With 170 for 3 at one stage, the Lankan Tigers looked set to possibly bat Pakistan out of the match on a dry pitch before the spinners came in and put the brakes on run making.

Sri Lanka, who managed to score 84 in the last 14 overs, would be quite unhappy with the final total, especially after half centuries from Lahiru Thirimanne (90) and Tillakaratne Dilshan (50).

Mohammad Irfan was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers as he took three crucial wickets. However, he was well supported by other bowlers, especially the spinners, who kept the Sri Lankan batters in check.