Australia fight back after Asif’s six wicket haul

Pakistan gained 325 runs lead with seven wickets in hand

KARACHI: Pakistan are still in commanding position of the Dubai Test despite Australia’s late fight back as Men in Green gained massive 325 runs lead against the visitors at stumps of day-three.

Australia — who resumed their inning with 30/0 runs on the board — dominated the opening session of the game.

Both openers provided a great 142 runs start before debutante Aaron Finch lost his wicket after falling to a trap of Mohammad Abbas. He made 62.

Finch’s opening partner Khawaja —who was looking very dangerous and was completely in command of his game — fell 15 runs short to his century.

This time, debutant Asif made the breakthrough for Pakistan.

Following that, Australia’s batting collapsed miserably and were bowled out on 202 training by 280 runs in first innings.

Asif was the star performer with the ball for Pakistan as he claimed maiden five-wicket haul. He ended up getting six wickets for 36 runs.

On the other hand, pacer Abbas — who was in sublime form in county cricket — continued his good run with the balls and bagged four wickets.

With Pakistan already leading by 280 runs in the first innings, Mohammad Hafeez (17) and Imamul Haq (19) provided a 37 runs start.

Hafeez lost his wicket with just over four overs remaining in the day. He made 17 runs. Jon Holland picked up the wicket for the visitors.

Nathan Lyon was too good for night watchman Bilal Asif as he was sent back to the dressing room without troubling the scorer.

Azhar Ali (4) was the last batsman dismissed, as Pakistan were three down for 45 runs on the board. This was Holland’s 2^nd wicket in the innings.

At the end of the day-three, Pakistan lead by 325 runs with seven wickets in hand. Imamul Haq remained unbeaten on 23.