Australia rode on fifties from Usman Khawaja, David Warner, and Marnus Labuschagne to finish Day 3 of the first Test match on 271/2. They still trail Pakistan by 203 runs. Khawaja missed out on his century by three runs, while Warner scored 68.
Khawaja and Warner were cautious against the fast bowlers in the morning, but started to score freely when spinners came on. He hit 12 fours in his 68 before getting bowled by Sajid Khan, while Khawaja, attempting a reverse sweep, was caught by Imam-ul-Haq at short leg off Nauman Ali. He was initially ruled not out but the DRS revealed an edge.
Although both wickets fell to spinners, neither Sajid nor Nauman was able to pose consistent threat to the batters. Iftikhar Ahmed conceded 20 runs in three overs. The pitch has not shown any signs of wear, and it will take something special to trigger a collapse here.
Pakistan have sorely missed Hasan Ali, one of their best fast bowlers with the old ball old ball. Naseem Shah has been far from impressive, leaking four runs per over.
Labuschagne and Steven Smith have already added 68 for the third wicket. Labuschagne got his 13th fifty and will resume on 69. Smith, too, looked at ease and he will look to convert his start into a big score.
Fantasy Tips
- Among bowlers, pick both Sajid and Nauman.
- Smith and Labuschagne seemed to be moving towards big innings, and are thus must-haves for your XI.