Sri Lanka took control of the first Test against Pakistan on the third day in Rawalpindi, courtesy of unbeaten centuries from former captain Dhananjaya de Silva and current skipper Kusal Mendis. The visitors turned the match firmly in their favour with a commanding batting display.

Resuming the day on 114-3, Sri Lanka finished on 404-4 at stumps. Despite still trailing Pakistan's first-innings total of 434 by 30 runs, the visitors have six wickets remaining.

The pair added an unbroken 249-run stand for the fifth wicket. Play was called off early due to bad light, with Sri Lanka adding 290 runs for the loss of just one wicket on the day.

Early setback for Sri Lanka

Kamindu Mendis, who was batting alongside Dhananjaya at the start of the day, was dismissed for 58, with Mohammad Abbas providing Pakistan an early breakthrough. However, that proved to be the only success for the hosts throughout the day, as the Sri Lankan batters dug in deep.

The defiant partnership

The unbeaten fifth-wicket stand between Dhananjaya and Kusal completely changed the complexion of the match. While Kusal played with intent, Dhananjaya's experience at the crease helped steady the innings. The duo frustrated the Pakistani bowlers throughout the day, remaining unbeaten till the close of play.

The road ahead

Sri Lanka still trail by 30 runs but with six wickets in hand, they are well-placed to take a substantial lead. The visitors will look to build on this platform on day four, while Pakistan will be desperate for early wickets to claw their way back into the contest.