Umpiring has left much to be desired

ELMO Rodrigopulle reporting from Galle

The umpiring in this first Test has left much to be desired. At the end of play media conference, a question was put to the Pakistani coach Dav Whatmore that 11 umpiring decisions had gone against Pakistan and asking for his comments. Whatmore the former Sri Lankan coach said that there is nothing he could say or do and that it will have to be taken through the correct channels. Not only the Pakistanis, some decisions have gone against the Sri Lankans too.

Asked about saving the Test, Whatmore said it is tough and the only salvation could come from above – meaning rain.

He was particularly impressed the way that Junaid Khan bowled in the Sri Lankan second innings.

He is one of the best they have and the left armer would be looking to get amongst the wickets in the remaining Two Tests. Asked about the non-use of the Umpires Decision Referral System, Whatmore said that it was used in the Sri Lanka-England Tests and could not understand why it is not being used in this series.

Whatever is said and done, Sri Lanka would be endeavouring to wrap up this Test before lunch on the fourth day if possible.

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