Usman Khawaja made the most of favourable batting conditions to bring his first Test century in the country of his birth and give Australia an edge in the second Test match, in Karachi. He walked back unbeaten on 127, as Australia closed Day 1 on 251/3.
Yet again Australia got off to a solid start, with the opening duo of David Warner and Khawaja scoring over four an over in the opening session. Steven Smith scored 72 before falling to Hasan Ali.
There was no movement on offer after the first few overs, but the pacers did get reverse swing in the second session. Hasan and Shaheen Shah Afridi need to provide early breakthroughs on Day 2.
The pitch will open up and bring spinners in focus as the game proceeds. Pakistan need to be mindful that they will be required to bat on Day 5 pitch, which won't be easy. Thus sooner they wrap up this innings better it will be for them.
Australia, meanwhile, have the likes of Travis Head, Cam Green, and Alex Carey still left to bat. They will aim for a total beyond 400 before taking the field.
Fantasy Tips
- Pick Afridi, Head, and Hasan in your team.
- Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are must-haves for your fantasy team. They will share the new-ball duties, and they also provide vital contributions with the bat.