A maiden century from Imam-ul-Haq stole the show on the opening day of the historic three-match series as Pakistan finished on 245/1. Imam is unbeaten on 132, along with Azhar Ali, on 64.
Australia could only manage a wicket of Abdullah Shafique in 90 overs of cricket. However, Shafique had already done a decent job, scoring 44 and providing a steady start to Pakistan, adding 105 with Imam for the opening wicket.
On the evidence of what we saw on Day 1, the decision to play four fast bowlers and a lone spinner, in Nathan Lyon, may prove to be a blunder for Australia. The fast bowlers did not really pose any trouble, while Travis Head, Steven Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne erred in their line and length.
Imam and Azhar have already added 140 for the second wicket. A lot depends on how they batters start the morning session. If Pakistan do not lose more than a couple of wickets before lunch, they will aim for a total in the vicinity of 400-425 before inviting Australia to bat.
Australia, meanwhile, need early wickets to get back in the game. They will aim to wrap up the innings inside two sessions. They would not like to bat the last 10-15 overs of the day after toiling in the field for the whole day.
Fantasy Tips
- Azhar and Babar are must-haves for your fantasy team.
- Among bowlers, pick Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc.