Babar Azam's brilliant hundred brought the second Test match between Pakistan and Australia, in Karachi, to a crucial juncture from where all four results are possible. On Day 5, Pakistan need 314 runs in 90 overs with eight wickets in hand.
Pakistan were in trouble after being reduced to 21/2 in the opening session, but Babar (102*) and Abdullah Shafique (71*) added an unbroken 171.
While a few cracks were visible on Day 4, the pitch in large looks decent for the batters. The middle part, in particular, is still flat and placid. If Babar and Shafique manage to survive the opening session, Pakistan will back themselves to go for the chase. However, quick wickets at any stage will send their plan awry.
The Australian bowlers have managed to keep the scoring rate in check so far, with none of their bowlers conceding more than 2.70 runs per over. The spin duo of Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Swepson need to step up on the final day.
Fantasy Tips
- Pick Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon in your team.
- Place your bet on Australia to go 1-0 up in the series.