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Kandy test declared a draw
Col (Retd) Rafi Nasim
July 2, 2000
The torrential rain that engulfed Kandy and its surroundings during the week destroyed an otherwise exciting 3rd and final test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The dawn of the 5th day (Sunday) saw the Agiriya International Stadium Ground fully submerged in water. The outfield was so soggy that the two commentators Tony Graig and Pat Symcot showed the heels and toes of their shoes dipped in wet soil. No amount of work could turn the ground fit for play.
Earlier, the rain washed out half the 1st days' play. Full day's game was, however, possible on the 2nd day that ended with Sri Lankan's fantastic innings of 449 for 5. On the 3rd day, only 15 minutes of play was possible during which Atapttu completed his prolific double ton (207). The 4th day was completely washed out and so the 5th day now. The test has been abandoned as a draw.
The prominent feature of the 5th day was the holding of a prize distribution ceremony to mark the end of HNB Test Series. The test having been drawn the prize money was shared by the two teams. While Pakistan won HNB Test Series Trophy, Wasim Akram was declared "Man of the Series".
© Cricinfo
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