Asif and Farhat hand Pakistan initiative

COLOMBO, Mar 27 (Reuters) Fast bowler Asif Mohammad and opening batsman Imran Farhat handed Pakistan the initiative in the opening test against Sri Lanka today.

Asif snared four for 41 as Sri Lanka were skittled out for a modest 185 and then the left-handed Farhat scored 69 from 90 balls to consolidate his team's advantage.

Pakistan finished the first day's play after yesterday's total washout on 124 for four, trailing by 61 runs with Inzamam-ul-Haq looking ominously dangerous on 30 not out.

Just after tea, Sri Lanka fought themselves back into the game as three top order wickets tumbled in quick succession and Pakistan slumped to 28 for 3.

Farhat and Inzamam rescued Pakistan with a 94-run stand though Sri Lanka did strike again just before bad light stopped play when Farhat skied a bouncer and was caught at long leg.

REUTERS AY KN1841