Another Hafeez century derails Sri Lanka

There was a big cloud hanging over Mohammad Hafeez ahead of the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. He had managed only returns of 98 runs and three wickets in four innings before missing the series-deciding Test in Pallekele, to undergo tests on his bowling action. He replied by getting impressive drift, turn and bounce, claiming his personal best figures of 4 for 41 in 10 overs, including a maiden before marshalling the chase of 256 with his tenth ODI century, the last four of which having come against Sri Lanka.

Hafeez rolled into action right away, after the hosts were inserted on a pitch with a tinge of grass. He began by removing left-handed batsman Kusal Perera off his third delivery. He would eventually cap his spell with the wicket of another left-hand batsman, Thisara Perera, off his last ball.