RAWALPINDI: Twenty-four years of long wait came to an end with a dominant performance by Pakistan led by century by batter Imam ul Haq, who, on his return to the national side, featured in two century partnerships, first with Abdullah Shafique, followed by Azhar Ali.
Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat first. Led by Babar Azam, Pakistan opted for a bowling line-up comprising two pacers – Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah – and two spinners – Noman Ali and Sajid Khan. Australia, on the other hand, fielded in a side comprising three pacers and one spinner.
The morning session started off with Shafique and Imam carefully negotiating the new ball before settling down and playing some glorious shots all over the ground. Shafique’s wicket came at a time when lunch was only four minutes away. He was dismissed on 44 by Nathan Lyon who had troubled him throughout the over.
The Australian bowlers looked clueless against Azhar and Imam, both of whom played glorious strokes all around the wicket. Azhar is playing 64 not out, with Imam at the other hand playing at 132. Pakistan end the Day 1 with 245-1 on the board.
