When Mohammad Yousuf fell for 23, Pakistan were just 67 for 4 and again on the brink of another spectacular collapse. With a small lead at the time of 113 runs, Pakistani fans must have been thinking here we go again.
But instead of joining the top order back in the pavillion, for once in this series the middle order got stuck in and made a fist of things.
First Misbah-ul-Haq and Shoaib Malik put on a partnership of 119 for the fifth wicket before Misbah was out for 65, Malik was then joined at the crease by wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal and between them they have put on an unbeaten stand of 114, with Pakistan finishing the day on 300/5.
Akmal’s innings was in stark contrast to that of Misbah’s. Misbah was methodical in his batting, scoring 65 off a painstaking 208 balls – his innings reflecting the delicate stage the match was in at the time. Akmal on the other hand has scored his 60 off just 68 balls. Resuming on the 4th morning Malik (106no) and Akmal (60no) will be looking to push Pakistan’s lead to over the 400 mark.
Close of play score
Stumps – Day 3
Pakistan 299 and 300 for 5, Malik 106 no,
Sri Lanka 233.
Pakistan lead by 366 with 5 wickets remaining.
Betting
Pakistan are 2/5 favourites with Sky Bet
The Draw is 7/2 with Boylesports
, Blue Square and 888sport
Sri Lanka are 9/1 with Bet365, 
Ladbrokes and William Hill
