Expect a backlash from Pakistan:

Lankans must guard against complacency

The Pakistanis who dominated the Test series in desert country where they beat Sri Lanka, will come out with a vengeance when they meet in the final Test beginning at the Pallekelle Stadium tomorrow.

They are one down in the Three Test series losing the first one in Galle and will play from out of their skins to win this Test and square the series.

They were on top in the SSC Test, but a dead wicket and rain deprived them of pushing for a victory being on top after making a massive 551 for 6 declared.

Up and up

Since Misbah Ul-Haq took over the captaincy and former Pakistan opening batsman Mohsin Khan became coach, Pakistani cricket had been on the up and up.

If they were to lose this series it will not be good for their cricket. So there could be a backlash and the Sri Lankans now that they are ahead, should be watchful and not let Pakistan win this one. Pakistan is sure to make some changes and front up their best possible eleven.

Their main ‘hit man’ Umar Gul who missed the SSC Test due to an injury, is likely to return and share the new ball with the inform Junaid Khan.

Full of confidence

Pakistan arrived here full of confidence. But sadly have not lived up to expectations.

They were hammered in the one-day series and if they were to squander the Test series it could be a calamity.

Their bating has clicked, with Mohammed Hafeez and Azhar Ali scoring centuries. Captain Misbah Ul-Haq chipped in with vital runs. Other recognized batsmen must also contribute and give their bowlers a score to bowl at and try and dismiss the Lankans.

The bowler that Pakistan is relying on to bowl them to victory is off spinner Saeed Ajmal. On an unresponsive SSC wicket he could not deliver. But he kept trying and was always a danger.

Unplayable

If there is a little bit of help from the Pallekelle wicket, Ajmal could be unplayable and may even bowl his side to the all important victory. His ‘doosra’ will worry all Sri Lankan batsmen.

Left arm medium pacer Junaid Khan is another bowler the Lankan batsmen will have to guard against.

He worked up good pace and late movement and his five wickets in the first innings at the SSC was good reward.

The Pakistanis as a fielding side is not a sight to watch. Their catching and ground fielding have been very poor on this tour. Obviously they have forgotten the adage that - catches win matches.

Must not lose

As for the Lankans, now that they lead the series, must not throw it away. They must guard against complacency and if they cannot win, must endeavour not lose.

The Lankans are sure to make changes, especially where their new ball attack is concerned. But all depends on the wicket and the conditions.

There have been occasional showers in Pallekelle.

But the weather is expected to stay fine during the five days of play.