Attapattu scores double century but frustration for Sri Lanka

The third days play of this Kandy test was a frustrating one for Sri Lanka. In dire need of rain during the previous two test matches, the skies remained blue. Then after their batsmen finally performed in this hill country test, they awoke this morning to see dark clouds hugging the lush hills that surround this town.

Throughout the day the skies remained overcast and frequent showers prevented any play until 4.30pm. However only 2.4 overs were possible as the rain clouds soon descended again and the umpires were finally forced to call off play for the day.

There was enough play though for Marvan Attapattu (207*) to complete a well deserved double century, the third of his career and the second that he has scored in Kandy. It was an innings that will be remembered for his exquisite driving, nimble footwork and unblinking concentration. He has now batted for over ten hours and 457 balls.

Finishing the day on 467-5 they will now surely have to declare and hope that Mutiah Muralitharan and Kumar Dharmasena can bowl out Pakistan cheaply tomorrow. The most likely result now though is clearly a draw.

Whilst Pakistan have endeared themselves to many by the quality of their cricket during this tour, they have clearly not done so with John Reid, the match referee. It has come to light that he fined Arshad Khan 30% of his match fee in the Galle for charging Umpire Asoka de Silva whilst appealing. In addition John Reid has discussed the issue of ball tampering with the Pakistan management, after being alerted by television pictures and having inspected the ball. He is expected to give Waqar Younis a warning.