A star was born at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday as debutant fast bowler Saqib Khan announced his arrival on the international stage with a devastating seven-wicket haul that left Sri Lanka reeling and Pakistani cricket fans celebrating a new hero.
The young pacer’s exceptional figures of seven wickets for 130 runs triggered a dramatic Sri Lankan collapse on the fourth morning of the first Test, transforming what looked like a commanding position into sudden vulnerability. Sri Lanka, who had appeared comfortable at 404 for four overnight, crumbled to 446 all out as their last six wickets tumbled for just 42 runs.
Saqib struck immediately when play resumed, dismissing overnight centurion Dhananjaya de Silva without adding to his score of 167. The Sri Lankan batsman, who had occupied the crease for nearly seven hours, could only edge behind to wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori. Minutes later, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis followed his partner back to the pavilion, falling for 119 after adding just two runs to his overnight total.
The devastating spell continued as Saqib systematically dismantled the Sri Lankan tail, claiming the scalps of Sonal Dinusha, Lahiru Kumara, and Asitha Fernando to complete his historic performance. His achievement places him in rarified air as only the fourth Pakistani bowler ever to capture seven wickets in an innings on Test debut, joining Mohammad Zahid, Mohammad Nazir, and Abrar Ahmed in the record books.
Pakistan’s response began positively despite conceding a small 12-run first-innings deficit. Openers Azan Awais and Mohammad Taha steadied the innings after the early loss of Tayyab Arif, who was trapped leg-before by Asitha Fernando for 11 just before lunch. The pair guided Pakistan to 57 for one, establishing a 45-run overall lead with nine wickets remaining.
However, the promising position was interrupted when bad light forced players off the field 45 minutes into the afternoon session, followed quickly by rain that ended play for the day. With weather forecasts predicting more precipitation on Friday, the match appears destined for a draw despite Pakistan’s strong position.
The weather intervention represents a frustrating twist for the home side, who had seized momentum through Saqib’s brilliance. A draw would leave the two-match series level heading into the second Test, also scheduled for Rawalpindi beginning November 17.
For Pakistani cricket, however, the emergence of Saqib Khan provides genuine cause for excitement. His ability to exploit overcast conditions and swing the ball dangerously suggests Pakistan may have unearthed another quality fast bowler to add depth to their pace attack. His performance under pressure on debut demonstrates the temperament and skill that could serve Pakistan well in future campaigns.
As rain clouds continue to hover over Rawalpindi, the cricketing nation celebrates a memorable individual achievement even as they hope for clearer skies to complete what could be a memorable victory.
