1st Test: Pakistan beat Australia to lead series 1-0

Hosts beat the Kangaroos by 221 runs in the first Test match

DUBAI:

Pakistan beat Australia in the first Test of the two-match series by 221 runs on Sunday to gain a 1-0 lead in Dubai.

Pakistan batted superbly in the first innings and scored 454 runs courtesy Younus Khan and Sarfaraz Ahmed's tons.

Australia were then bowled out on 303 as David Warner (133) was the only man who looked comfortable against Pakistan spin attack.

Pakistan came in to bat in their second innings and this time Ahmed Shehzad (131) played a century-knock top of the order. Younus Khan the joined him after Azhar Ali fell for 30 on the start on day four and scored yet another ton (103) to help Pakistan declare their innings with a lead of 437 runs.

Australia looked completely abysmal against Pakistan spin attack once more and were bowled out for 216 near the end of day five.

Yasir Shah bagged seven wickets on his debut (three in the first and four in the second innings) while Zulfiqar Babar also bagged seven wickets with two in the first and five in the second.

The second Test match between Pakistan and Australia will be played on October 30 in Abu Dhabi.

 

1645: Aus 216 all out, lose by 221 runs

Peter Siddle is caught at silly point off Zulfiqar Babar. Pakistan win their fourth Test match against Australia in 20 years.

 

1630: Aus 213-9, need 225 runs

Mitchell Johnson is stumped on 61 runs as Pakistan need just one wicket to win the Test match

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER TEA ON DAY 5, 1605: Aus 196-8, need 242 runs

Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle have taken up the task of saving Australia. Pakistan are being pushed from a win-win situation to a 50-50 win position. They need to get these two wickets and fast to win this Test match.

 

TEA ON DAY 5, 1545: Aus 196-8, need 242 runs

After the departure of Steven Smith, Mitchell Johnson (54) has shown a slight bit of aggression with occasional boundaries to reach his half-century. Peter Siddle is supporting his stay at the crease. The last session will see nearly 30 overs bowled. What can Australia do to survive those? And what are Pakistan planning to do to win this match as soon as possible. All the questions will be answered after a 20-min tea break.

 

1510: Aus 170-8, need 268 runs

Steven Smith is caught at short leg off Yasir Shah's delivery. Umpires make sure it hasn't bumped and the replay confirms the dismissal. spin proving just too good for Australia.

 

1450: Aus 162-7, need 276 runs

Mitchell Johnson (27) given another life line. This time Yasir Shah drops an easy catch off Zulfiqar Babar. Meanwhile, Steven Smith has completes his half-century.

 

1435: Aus 151-7, need 286 runs

Mitchell Johnson plays his natural slog sweep but Ahmed Shehzad drops a sitter.

 

1400: Aus 133-7, need 305 runs

Mitchell Johnson (14) and Steven Smith(36) have held their ground against Pakistan. They are playing Pakistani bowlers with confidence at the moment. Pakistan need to exploit their weaknesses and send the Australians packing as soon as possible.

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER LUNCH ON DAY 5, 1345: Aus 117-7, need 321 runs

Rahat Ali will start the second session of day five for Pakistan. Mitchell Johnson faces him.

 

LUNCH DAY 5, 1300: Aus 117-7, need 321 runs

Pakistan are nearing their 13th Test victory against Australia and their fourth in the last 20 years. Just three wickets required to achieve the feat as we go into an hour's Lunch break.

 

1245: Aus 105-7, need 333 runs

Brad Haddin bowled for naught by Zulfiqar Babar. Pakistan just need to wrap up the tail now. Mitchell Johnson has walked in to join Steven Smith.

 

1230: Aus 101-6, need 337 runs

Mitchell Marsh (3) lunges forward onto the front foot and Azhar Ali is quick enough to take the catch at silly point. It was yet another loopy deliver from Zulfiqar Babar which urged the batsman to come forward and play it.

 

1212: Aus 92-5, need 346 runs

Chris Rogers is clean bowled by Imran Khan. The ball was pitched by Imran on middle and off stump, a little bit of reverse swing and Rogers' bails were struck off.

 

PLAY RESUMES ON DAY 5, 1100: Aus 59-4, need 379 runs

 

Tantalisingly close: Six wickets stand between Pakistan and victory

Pakistan need just six wickets to claim a historic win against Australia as spinners made quick inroads in the fourth innings, while Younus Khan became the country’s highest century maker with his 26th Test century – surpassing Inzamamul Haq’s 25 – on day four of the first Test at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Set a daunting target of 438, the Australians got off to a quick start with David Warner making a quick-fire 29. However, once he was stumped by Sarfaraz Ahmed on a slider from Zulfiqar Babar, the complexion of the innings changed dramatically.

From being 44 without loss, Australia crumbled to 49-4 as Babar removed Alex Doolan for naught in the same over as Warner. Then leg-spinner Yasir Shah impressed further on his debut and turned on the heat by removing skipper Michael Clarke for three and night-watchman Nathan Lyon for a duck in the 16th over.

Bafflingly, Clarke did not take a review when he was adjudged lbw, with replays showing that the ball took an inside edge onto the pads. Australia now need 379 more runs and have just six wickets in hand.

“We’ve been outclassed in all three departments by Pakistan so far, and I knew it coming into the series that it will be tough in these sorts of conditions,” Clarke admitted in the post-match press conference. “I’m disappointed with my performance in this Test and didn’t take the review because I wasn’t sure whether the ball had hit bat first or the pad.”

Pakistan had resumed play on day four at 38-0 and went on to score a commanding 286-2 in 78 overs before declaring. Centurions Ahmed Shahzad and Younus put on a 170-run stand for the second-wicket to put Pakistan in control.

“It was Younus who inspired me at the end of day three when we were travelling in the bus by saying that he had to wait 12 years to score his first century against Australia, so I should make sure that I grab my opportunity,” said Shahzad.



“It’s not easy to score a century against Australia because they don’t give you easy runs and you have to earn them. So I’m very satisfied with my performance and want to continue doing well by learning from seniors such as Younus.”

Shahzad top-scored for Pakistan with 131 off 233 deliveries, hitting four sixes and 10 boundaries to bring up his second Test ton, while Younus made a 152-ball 103 with two sixes and six strikes to the fence for his second in the match.

Younus became just the seventh Pakistani to score centuries in each innings of a Test and the first to do so against Australia.

“It would have been easy for me to opt out of the Test series against Australia after the controversy of getting dropped from ODI squad, but I’ve always opted for difficult routes and got my head right to come and serve Pakistan with the backing of my friends and family,” revealed Younis.

“They backed me by saying that you may score a Test ton against Australia to become the first Pakistani to score centuries against all Test playing nations. Now here I am; the highest century-maker in Tests, surpassing greats such as Muhammad Yousuf, Javed Miandad and Inzamam, while scoring two centuries in one match against Australia. I’m a very proud Pakistani today.”

 

STUMPS DAY 4, 1830: Aus 59-4 (23 overs), need 380 runs

Pakistan have dominated yet another day against Australia, first through bat and then through great spin bowling by Zulfiqar Babar and Yasir Shah. Chris Rogers (23) and Steven Smith (3) will start day five to save Australia from a loss. Pakistan, meanwhile, just require six wickets to win the first Test against Australia in Dubai.

1820: Aus 57-4 (21 overs), need 381 runs

Pakistani spin duo of Zulfiqar Babar and Yasir Shah have caused trouble for Australia. They are down and out for the day. Pakistan have dominated yet another day of Test cricket against the mighty Australians.

 

1800: Aus 49-4 (17 overs), need 389 runs

Yasir Shah bags a brace in the 17th over. Captain Michael Clarke (3) and nightwatchman Nathan Lyon (0) both caught LBW.

 

1750: Aus 44-1 (14 overs), need 394 runs

The danger-man David Warner departs for 29. Zulfiqar turns one away from him and he misses it completely. Alex Doolan is also caught LBW in the same over. Pakistan have the breakthroughs they needed. How many more wickets can they bag before the end of day four?

 

1730: Aus 41-0 (11 overs), need 397 runs

David Warner (27) and Chris Rogers (14) are making sure they do not give away any chance to Pakistan. They have not stopped scoring and are nudging the ball around to stay out of pressure. Meanwhile, Misbahul Haq introduces Yasir Shah who accounted for Warner in the first innings. Only 12 overs are remaining in the day. Who is going to bag a wicket or two for Pakistan?

 

1715: Aus 25-0 (7 overs), need 413 runs

Pakistan will have to bowl superbly in order to get all the Australian batsmen out. A minimum of 16 overs are left in today's play. A couple of wickets will help Pakistan while Australia will have to be cool-minded as they have to bat through the whole day five to draw the match.

 

1700: Aus 16-0 (3 overs), need 422 runs

David Warner (13) is looking perfectly comfortable on the pitch as he hit Rahat Ali for two consecutive boundaries in the second over. Chris Rogers (3) is in his usual defending mode.

 

AUSTRALIA START THEIR SECOND INNINGS, 1645: Aus 0-0, need 437 runs to win

Imran Khan opens the bowling for Pakistan while Chris Rogers and first innings hero for Australia David Warner open batting for the Aussies.

 

1633: Pak 286-2 (77.3 overs), lead by 437 runs

Younus Khan sweeps on the last ball of the 78th over to bring up his second century in the first Test match. He, with his 26th century, breaks Inzamamul Haq's record of most centuries for Pakistan. The hosts now invite Australia in to bat with 25 overs remaining in day four.

 

1620: Pak 254-2 (74 overs), lead by 405 runs

Ahmed Shehzad seemed to have a cramp in his right leg and he reverse sweeps just to be caught LBW by Steve O'Keefe in the 72nd over. Younus Khan hits O'Keefe for a four on the fifth ball of the same over. Meanwhile another last innings' century-man, Sarfaraz Ahmed, comes onto the crease.

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER TEA ON DAY 4, 1610: Pak 231-1 (70 overs), lead by 382 runs

 

TEA DAY 4, 1545: Pak 231-1 (70 overs), lead by 382 runs

Pakistan go into Tea on day four of the first Test match with a confident 382-run lead. Ahmed Shehzad (128) and Younus Khan (67) did well in the two session of day four after Azhar Ali was out on 30 earlier in the day. Pakistan will be planning to go past 400 and declare while Australia will be chosing between defending or going all-out to win the Test match. Everything will be clear when the players come back after a 20-minute Tea break.

 

1535: Pak 219-1 (67 overs), lead by 370 runs

Ahmed Shehzad (123) and Younus Khan (60) have been signalled to take the charge onto the Australians. Shehzad smashes Peter Siddle for a four and then two sixes in the 66th over.

 

1520: Pak 194-1 (65 overs), lead by 345  runs

Ahmed Shehzad (106) scores the fourth century of the first Test match. His second Test century in 12 innings for Pakistan. With 40 minutes remaining in Tea on day four, Pakistan have to take their lead beyond 400 and put Australia in to bat if they want to win this match.

 

1510: Pak 182-1 (62 overs), lead by 333 runs

A boundary by Younus Khan (50) brings up his half-century in the 61st over while Ahmed Shehzad (97) hits Mitch Marsh for a four in the 62nd to ensure he reaches touching distance for his century.

 

1445: Pak 170-1 (59 overs), lead by 321 runs

Ahmed Shehzad (90) targets Steve O'Keefe in the 57th over for a four and a six. He hits Marsh for a boundary in the next over. Meanwhile, Younus Khan (45) is busy with defending and occasionally rotating the strike. Pakistan have nearly another hour and fifteen minutes of play to take this lead near 400 before Tea.

 

1430: Pak 148-1 (55 overs), lead by 299 runs

Pakistan have nearly reached the 300-run mark. How much more will they score before inviting Australia to play their second innings. Meanwhile, Younus Khan (41) is nearing his half-century while Ahmed Shehzad is 72.

 

1415: Pak 140 -1 (52 overs), lead by 291 runs

Australia again pull Pakistan back from scoring. Ahmed Shehzad is trying to be aggressive time and again but the Aussie bowlers are not allowing him any room to open up his arms. Eight runs in four overs. Pakistan need a Sarfaraz Ahmed performance here.

 

1400: Pak 132-1 (48 overs), lead by 283 runs

Ahmed Shehzad (63) hits Steve O'Keefe for a six in the 45th over while Younus Khan (34) scores a boundary of Peter Siddle in the next. Some quick running between the wickets also shows Pakistani intent to score rapidly in the second session of day four.

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER LUNCH ON DAY 4, 1345: Pak 116-1 (44 overs), lead by 267 runs

 

LUNCH DAY 4, 1305: Pak 116-1 (44 overs), lead by 267 runs

Pakistan go into Lunch on day four after adding 78 runs and losing one wicket to Australia. The next session will be an important one as Pakistan will be thinking of maximising their lead to minimum 400 and bring Australia in to bat. Play resumes in an hour.

 

1300: Pak 108-1 (43 overs), lead by 259 runs

Younus Khan accelerates his innings a little and reaches to 19 while Ahmed Shehzad is batting on 54. Meanwhile, Australia are swapping between Steve O'Keefe and Mitchell Johnson.

 

1245: Pak 97-1 (40 overs), lead by 248 runs

Ahmed Shehzad (52) receives one in the ribs from Mitchell Johnson and rubs it in pain. This has to happen when you are facing Johnson. Pakistan are not looking in a good shape to score fast. Australia are making sure they dry up the runs. Meanwhile, Younus Khan is on 11.

 

1230: Pak 95-1 (37 overs), lead by 246 runs

Ahmed Shehzad brings up his fifty off 127 balls while Younus Khan (10) also moves on into double figures. This is Shehzad's third Test fifty and he needs to convert this into a century for his team.

 

1215: Pak 88-1 (34 overs), lead by 239 runs

Pakistan have been kept silent by Australia at the start of day four. Four overs and just seven runs is not what the hosts need right now. Meanwhile, Ahmed Shehzad is on 46 and Younus Khan (9) is adamant that he will not enter double figures so easily.

 

1200: Pak 81-1 (30 overs), lead by 232 runs

After the departure of Azhar Ali, Australia have started to pile up pressure on the incoming Younus Khan (7) and Ahmed Shehzad (41). Both players are playing nicely under pressure but they need to break Australia before the Kangaroos break them down.

 

1143: Pak 71-1 (24.4 overs), lead by 222 runs

Azhar Ali gives up on 30 as O'Keefe gets the breakthrough for Australia. Younus Khan walks in to replace him.

 

1130: Pak 66-0 (22 overs), lead by 217 runs

Pakistan have started day four in a very steady manner. Ahmed Shehzad is on 36 while Azhar Ali is supporting him on 29.

 

PLAY STARTS ON DAY 4, 1100: Pak 38-0 (13 overs), lead by 189 runs

 

Pakistan dominate day three to take control

Pakistan have taken control of the first Test match against Australia in Dubai after dominating the third day and finishing 189 runs ahead of the visitors at stumps.

Openers Azhar Ali and Ahmed Shehzad negotiated a tricky final 13 overs to add 38 runs to Pakistan’s 151-run first-innings lead as they finished the day with all 10 wickets intact.

The Australians had ended day two on a high after Chris Rodgers and David Warner added 113 for the opening partnership till stumps. However, the Australian batsmen were unable to capitalise on the good work as Rodgers played on after a Rahat Ali delivery got big on him in the seventh over of the day after a 128-run opening stand.

It was all downhill from there on as the middle order failed, despite Warner scoring yet another brilliantly attacking century; his fourth of the year. The wickets kept falling in pairs with only seven runs between the second and the third wickets; one run between the fourth and fifth; 18 between the sixth, seventh and eighth; and four between the final two.

With four wickets falling in the extended first session, Warner — on 133 from 171 balls — held the key going into the lunch break as Mitchell Marsh stood on naught at the other end. However, the extended lunch break ultimately led to the left-hander’s downfall as he lost concentration and was bowled by leg-spinner Yasir Shah in the first over of the second session, which also saw four wickets fall. Pakistan picked up the final two wickets in the last session before adding 38-0 to ensure that they dominated all three sessions of the day.

 

Bowlers impress

All members of the inexperienced and unfancied bowling attack impressed to varying degrees, with all five bowlers among the wickets. Shah was the pick of them with figures of 3-66 on his debut, despite being used more sparingly than Muhammad Hafeez and Zulfiqar Babar – the other two spinners in the side who claimed one and two wickets respectively.

The Australians lost all 10 wickets for just 190 runs in the day and other than Warner, no player crossed the 50-run mark and Mitchell Johnson, with 37, was the highest scorer barring the openers. The men from down under had mainly themselves to blame as most of them got out playing poor shots, especially against the spinners, who to their credit, kept to a tight line.

Warner conceded that the batsmen should have done better and threw away their wickets. “The way we batted is disappointing," said Warner. "Conditions are quite tough but we look at the run out [of Alex Doolan], you shouldn't be giving run out chances in Test match cricket."

 

STUMPS DAY 3, 1840: Pak 38-0 (13 overs), lead by 189 runs

Only two runs of the last two overs of the day. Pakistan are the team of day three as they restricted Australia to 303 and came in to bat and extend their lead to 189 runs.

 

1830: Pak 36-0 (11 overs), lead by 187 runs

A rugged swing from Ahmed Shehzad (21) earned him a four on the leg side off Peter Siddle. He finds the fence once again while dancing down the wicket and hitting O'Keefe towards the long-off boundary. Otherwise, Pakistan opening duo has been relying on defending and occasional running between the wickets. Azhar Ali is batting on 15.

 

1815: Pak 16-0 (7 overs), lead by 167 runs

Two boundaries by Azhar Ali towards cover and third-man off Mitchell Johnson in the fifth over. Plus a few nudges or singles and doubles earn Pakistan 15 runs in four overs. Meanwhile, Shehzad was dropped in the slip off Peter Siddle of the last ball of the 7th over.

 

1800: Pak 1-0 (3 overs), lead by 152 runs

Azhar Ali and Ahmed Shehzad have been silent in the second innings. Meanwhile, Mitchell Johnson is also testing them with his wrath-filled, super-paced and ultra-effective bouncers.

 

PAKISTAN START THEIR SECOND INNINGS, 1745: Pak 0-0, lead by 151 runs

Ahmed Shehzad and Azhar Ali open the batting for Pakistan as Muhammad Hafeez had twisted his right foot earlier during bowling.

 

END OF AUSTRALIA'S FIRST INNINGS, 1735: Aus 303 all out, trail by 151 runs.

Rahat Ali and Yasir Shah account for the last two batsmen on the first balls of the 102nd and 103rd overs. Pakistan have to come in and bat the remaining overs of the day. They will be thinking of extending their lead further and the openers will be thinking of performing this time around for the team.

 

1715: Aus 297-8 (100 overs), trail by 157 runs

Johnson (35) and O'Keefe (6) are taking a stand for the Aussies.

 

1700: Aus 285-8(96 overs), trail by 169 runs

Hafeez, Babar, Hafeez but no fruitful results in the last three overs. Not even a close chance of anyone getiing out. Meanwhile, Hafeez twists his right foot to invite Bradley Robinson, Pakistani physiotherapist, on the pitch. He walks off the pitch for treatment while Yasir Shah completes his over. Johnson (24) and O'Keefe (5) are defending well for Australia.

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER TEA, 1650: Aus 282-8 (93 overs), trail by 172 runs

Muhammad Hafeez bowls to Mitchell Johnson.

 

TEA DAY 3, 1630: Aus 282-8 (93 overs), trail by 172 runs

Mitchell Johnson (22) and Steve O'Keefe (4) are on the pitch with Australia in deep trouble as Pakistani bowlers presented an all-round performance. Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar bag two wickets apiece while Muhammad Hafeez, Rehan Ali and Imran Khan have accounted for one batsman each. Pakistan will try to remove the remaining two batsmen before the end of the day while Australia will be thinking of pushing this game towards a draw by batting as long as possible.

 

1612: Aus 267-8 (88 overs), trail by 187 runs

Peter Siddle is caught LBW off Muhammad Hafeez's delivery. He reviews the decision but the replay shows he has to go. Australia is in big trouble now as Mitchell Johnson is the only batsman who can score some runs for them.

 

1606: Aus 262-7 (86.4 overs), trail by 192 runs

Mitch Marsh is caught LBW by Zulfiqar Babar. On-field umpire gave it not out but Misbahul Haq decided to review it. It was plum. Australia are in a big problem now. Pakistan just have to remove the tail.

 

1600: Aus 259-6 (86 overs), trail by 195 runs

Four runs in four over by Mitch Marsh and Mitchell Johnson. Pakistan need to push more and find wickets before tea on day three. Australia will be looking to stay put on the pitch with damage control strategy.

 

1545: Aus 255-6 (82 overs), trail by 199 runs

Mitch Marsh hits Rahat ali for a boundary before given out caught behind by the on-field umpire in the 81st over. He reviews the decision successfully. Australia dressing room takes a sigh of relief. Mitchell Johnson is in to help Australia but this time he has a bat in his hands.

 

1530: Aus 249-6 (80 overs), trail by 205 runs

Second new ball taken by Pakistan and Imran Khan finds an inside edge off Haddin's bat and bowls him.

 

1515: Aus 247-5 (78 overs), trail by 207 runs

Brad Haddin (22) shows some aggression against Yasir Shah. Hits him for a six followed by two consecutive boundaries in the 73rd over. After that, Mitch Marsh (18) scores a boundary off Zulfiqar Babar in the 75th over. Otherwise, the Aussie duo has looked calm and controlled on the pitch.

 

1500: Aus 217-5 (72 overs), trail by 237 runs

Imran Khan, Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar all try their luck but the Haddin, Marsh duo looks rock solid with their defence.

 

1445: Aus 214-5 (69 overs), trail by 240 runs

Mitch Marsh (3) and Brad Haddin (4) would be sent in to force a partnership and not lose any wicket in the process.

 

PLAY RESUMES AFTER LUNCH, 1430: Aus 207-5 (66.3 overs), trail by 247 runs

Warner faces Yasir Shah and gets clean bowled on the second ball of the very first over after Lunch. Brad Haddin walks in to join Mitchell Marsh. Two new batsmen on the crease as Australia try to minimise the trail by Pakistan.

 

LUNCH DAY 3, 1335: Aus 207-4 (66 overs), trail by 247 runs

Pakistan have taken four wickets in today's first session while Australia have scored 94 runs courtesy a century by David Warner. Australia will be planning to minimise the trail as much as possible in the second session while Pakistan will be searching for wickets. Play resumes in an hour. We will we back with our live updates. Stay tuned!

 

1330: Aus 206-4 (65 overs), trail by 248 runs

Steve smith (22 off 44) departs as Yasir Shah gets his first wicket in Tests for Pakistan on debut. Muhammad Hafeez takes the catch at point. Pakistan have made a strong statement in the first session of day three. Four wickets for just 93 runs until now.

 

1325: Aus 202-3 (64 overs), trail by 252 runs

200 comes up for Australia as Warner (131) hits Hafeez for two consecutive boundaries as Lunch is near.

 

1315: Aus 188-3 (61 overs), trail by 266 runs

David Warner (123) and his new partner Steve Smith (19) are playing confidently using their feet very well against spin.

 

1245: Aus 165-3 (54 overs), trail by 289 runs

Steve Smith (5 off 7 balls) is using his feet quite nicely to play against Spin. Meanwhile, Warner is silent for a moment on 108 off 141.

 

1235: Aus 158-3 (52.1 overs), trail by 296 runs

That is the end of the road for Michael Clarke (2 off 13) in the first innings of this Test match. Zulfiqar Babar accounts for him as Azhar Ali takes an easy catch at short leg. Steve Smith, another man in form, comes on to face Pakistan's spin attack.

 

1230: Aus 156-2 (51 overs), trail by 298 runs

David Warner smashes Rahat Ali for a four in the 50th over. He does not seem to come under pressure of any sorts. He is in-form and might be planning to convert his century into a double ton.

 

1220: Aus 151-2 (49 overs), trail by 303 runs

Alex Doolan (5) tries to take a quick single but Rahat Ali's direct hit from mid-on makes sure he returns to the pavilion. Captain Michael Clarke is on the crease now for Australia with the ton-up man David Warner.

 

1215: Aus 151-1 (48 overs), trail by 303 runs

Warner (101) smacks Imran Khan for a boundary towards extra cover and brings up his century in style in the 148th over. Warner's ninth century was also his third century in consecutive innings. Meanwhile, Alex Doolan carries on with his snail-paced innings scoring five runs off 28 deliveries.

 

1200: Aus 143-1 (45 overs), trail by 311 runs

Alex Doolan (3) scores his first run after 16 balls. Meanwhile, David Warner is constantly rotating the strike and has reached 95 off 119.

 

1145: Aus 134-1 (42 overs), trail by 320 runs

Alex Doolan has not opened his account yet while David Warner is breezing towards his century with 89 off 112 deliveries.

 

1125: Aus 128-1 (37.3 overs), trail by 326 runs

Chris Rogers inside edges a short pitched delivery from Rahat Ali onto the stumps. Pakistan get their first breakthrough of the match. Right-handed batsman Alex Doolan now comes onto the crease.

 

PLAY STARTS ON DAY 3, 1100: Aus 113-0 (31 overs), trail by 341 runs

David Warner and Chris Rogers start day three. Rahat will bowl the first over of the day. Warner looks in fine form and is en route to a Test century while Rogers is proceeding slowly and steadily.

 

Australia fight back after Sarfaraz records ton

Australia openers David Warner and Chris Rogers rode their luck to help their team finish on a respectable 113-0 after Pakistan set a huge first innings total of 454, courtesy of a blistering Test ton by Sarfaraz Ahmed here at the Dubai Cricket Stadium.

Trailing by 341 runs, Warner was undefeated on a fluent 77-ball 75 studded with a six and seven fours while Rogers was not out on 31.

Rogers was given another life after being dropped at 13 by Younus Khan off Zulfiqar Babar.

“We’ve started off well as Warner’s positive intent has put us in a good position,” said Australia spinner Steve O’Keefe after the match.

“Before that, we’d restricted Pakistan to near about two runs per over, but Sarfaraz came in and changed the tempo of the whole innings.”

Earlier, Pakistan resumed the day on 219-4 with Misbah unbeaten on 34 and Asad Shafiq playing on nine. Their 93-run association ended when Misbah – who made a slow 69 and received body blows in the process – mistimed a shot and was caught at mid-on.

Asad was then joined by the in-form Sarfaraz, who toyed with the Australian bowling attack and scored runs at will.

Both looked set to score deserving tons before Asad threw the opportunity, trying to sweep debutant O’Keefe and was dismissed on 89.

Records galore for gutsy Sarfaraz

Sarfaraz scored the fourth-fastest Test century by a Pakistani batsman in just 80 deliveries and equalled Kamran Akmal’s record of wicketkeeper hitting tons in back-to-back Tests.

Majid Khan still holds the record of fastest century in 74 balls, while Shahid Afridi achieved the feat twice in 78 deliveries.

Sarfaraz also became the third Pakistani wicketkeeper to score a Test century against Australia apart from Moin Khan and Taslim Arif, and levelled with legends Inzamamul Haq and Saeed Anwar to score five consecutive scores of over fifty in the longest format of the game.

It was also the second-fastest Test century by a wicketkeeper, and only Adam Gilchrist has achieved the landmark in fewer deliveries (57).

The wicketkeeper was dismissed playing his favourite sweep shot and was stumped on 109 off 105 balls with 14 boundaries, while Zulfiqar Babar later injured a finger after being struck by a ball from Mitchell Johnson and was retired hurt.

Pakistan team manager Moin Khan revealed that Babar only required taping on his cut.

“Thankfully, Zulfiqar didn’t require any stitches on his cut and is fit to bowl throughout the Test match,” Moin told The Express Tribune.

Pakistan were dismissed for 454 in 145 overs, with Johnson taking three wickets and O’Keefe and Nathan Lyon claimed two scalps each.

 

STUMPS DAY 2, 1630: Aus 113-0 (31 overs), trail by 341 runs

Not much to talk about the last three overs of the day except that the spin trap placed for Australia has not worked yet for Pakistan. The third day might bring some excitement for Pakistan with the new ball and fresh faces. Meanwhile, Australia have done well to score 113 without the loss of any wicket. Hope to see some spark on the third day. Live coverage of the first Test, Day three start again 11am PST tomorrow.

 

1815: Aus 102-0 (28 overs), trail by 352 runs

100 up for Australia. 100-run partnership up for David Warner and Chris Rogers. Australia have shown Pakistan that they can also score on such dead wickets. Pakistan are surely missing the class of Saeed Ajmal.

 

1800: Aus 85-0 (24 overs), trail by 369 runs

Half-century comes up David Warner in the 23rd over as he reverse sweeps debutant Yasir Shah for a boundary. He is on 56 off 57 deliveries. Chris Rogers is on 23 from 88 deliveries.

 

1740: Aus 67-0 (20 overs), trail by 387 runs

A boundary off Hafeez by Warner in the 17th over and singles and doubles tell the tale of these five overs.

 

1720: Aus 46-0 (15 overs), trail by 408 runs

Imran Khan bowls the 13th over without causing much drama. Zulfiqar Babar comes back into the ground with a heavily bandages right hand. Bowls the 14th over and creates an easy chance in the slip which is dropped by Younus Khan. Chris Rogers is given a lifeline. Muhammad Hafeez bowls a pretty good over for just two runs and its drinks!

 

1705: Aus 28-0 (12 overs), trail by 426 runs

Warner hits a boundary against Imran Khan in the 11th over. Rogers escapes an LBW appeal by Muhammad Hafeez. Umpire gave him not out, Pakistan reviewed the decision and the replay showed the ball hitting the bat first.

 

1645: Aus 16-0 (8 overs), trail by 438 runs

Not much happening in the match as both Australian openers are playing defensively to avoid any loss of wicket before the end of play on day two. A minimum of 25 overs are still left in the day. Warner is on 10 while Rogers is on 6.

 

1630: Aus 11-0 (4 overs), trail by 443 runs

David Warner and Chris Rogers opened the batting for Australia and haven't faced any danger except an LBW appeal on Chris Rogers by Muhammad Hafeez in the fourth over.

 

END OF PAKISTAN'S FIRST INNINGS, 1605: Pak 454-9 (145 overs)

Nathan Lyon accounts for Rahat Ali who launches the ball in the air for and easy catch in the mid-wicket region. Zulfiqar Babar is retired hurt so this is the end of Pakistan's first innings. Australia will be shortly in to bat.

 

PLAY RESUMES ON DAY 2 AFTER TEA, 1600: Pak 454-8 (144.4 overs)

 

TEA DAY 2, 1545: 454-8 (144.4 overs) 

Sarfaraz is still plating on 106 while Zulfiqar Babar's middle finger faced the wrath of a 146-kmph Johnson-delivery in the 143rd over. Physio called to treat a bleeding finger. O'Keefe bowled the 144th over to Babar where he had to call the physio again. He then fires a boundary over Steve's head on the very next ball after the treatment.

Sarfaraz is stumped on 109 off 104 balls. Pakistan go for tea on 454-8 after 144.4 overs.

 

1520: 442-7 (140 overs)

Sarfaraz Ahmed (104*) signalled by coach Waqar Younis to continue playing. Debutant Yasir Shah (2) is accounted by Steve O'Keefe.

 

1505: Sarfaraz Ahmed completes his century off just 80 balls.

 

1500: Pak 426-6 (136 overs)

Sarfaraz hits a boundary off Mitch Marsh in the 133rd over. Asad Shafiq (89) then hits O'Keefe out of the park on the second ball of the 134th over only to get out on the next ball caught by Marsh. Mitch bowls the 135th over for just one run while O'Keefe gives away nine runs in the 136th over courtesy a boundary, a double and three runs by Sarfaraz.

 

1437: Pak 404-5 (132 overs)

Pakistan cross the 400-run mark courtesy three smashing boundaries by Sarfaraz Ahmed (75*) off Steve Smith. Asad Shafiq is on 82*.

 

1430: Pak 377-5 (130 overs)

Asad Shafiq (77*) launches O'Keefe for six over long-on in the 127th over, Lyon then bowls a three-run 128th over, O'Keefe returns with a four-run 129th over while Lyon bowls the 130th over for six runs. Sarfaraz (59*) is also is for a century if he can play with the same aggression.

 

1415: Pak 363-5 (126 overs)

Johnson gives away just three runs in the 123rd over, Asad Shafiq scores a boundary off Siddle in the 124th over, Sarfaraz Ahmed reaches his fifth consecutive Test fifty off Steve O'Keefe in the 125th over and Nathan Lyon gives away seven runs in the 126th over.

 

1400: Pak 341-5 (122 overs)

A maiden by Mitchell Johnson, a boundary by Sarfaraz Ahmed off Peter Siddle's over, another maiden by Johnson, two boundaries by Sarfaraz off Siddle and a single. Pakistan clearly showing their intent to block Johnson and score against all other bowlers. Also, the duo of Shafiq (56*) and Sarfaraz (40*) reaches the 50-run mark for their partnership.

 

PLAY RESUMES on DAY 2, 1340: Pak 328-5 (118 overs)

Mitchell Johnson opens the bowling after lunch. Asad Shafiq faces.

 

LUNCH DAY 2, 1300: Pak 328-5 (118 overs)

Sarfaraz (27*) smashes Nathan Lyon for a boundary on the very first ball of the 116th over. Asad Shafiq (56*) completes his half-century off 99 deliveries in the same over and then smashes a boundary off Johnson in the 117th over.

 

1245: Pak 312-5 (115 overs)

Sarfaraz Ahmed (19 off 11) has been told to deal in boundaries so that Pakistan can end on high note before lunch. Asad Shafiq, in the meantime, needs just two runs to complete his half-century.

 

1235: Pak 291-5 (112.1 overs)

Misbahul Haq had started to show some intent of accelerating the innings for Pakistan. He went after a flighted delivery off Steve Smith, mistimed it and Mitchell Johnson grabbed an easy catch on long-on. Sarfaraz Ahmed is the next man in.

 

1230: Pak 287-4 (111 overs)

Misbah's (69) six off Steve Smith in the 111th over highlights these four overs. Otherwise, Australians have been able to keep the skipper and Shafiq (42) calm.

 

1215: Pak 271-4 (107 overs)

Pakistan are scoring runs against spinners on a turning pitch. They are defending against the seamers who are relying on bouncers to scare Misbah (58) and Shafiq (37).

 

1200: Pak 266-4 (104 overs)

Three boundary-less overs bowled by Nathan Lyon, Peter Siddle and Steve O'Keefe. Misbah is on 54 while Shafiq moves to 36.

 

1145: Pak 253-4 (101 overs)

Besides Asad Shafiq's boundary off Nathan Lyon in the 100th over singles are main course meal for Pakistan at the moment. Misbah (52*) and Shafiq (25*) are in no mood of scoring quickly.

 

1130: Pak 245-4 (96 overs)

Misbahul Haq completes his half-century on 132 deliveries. Meanwhile, Asad Shafiq is on 19.

 

SECOND DAY PLAY STARTS, 1100: Pak 219-4 (90 overs)

Second day play resumes. Misbahul Haq is on 34 and Asad Shafiq resumes his innings on 9.

 

Ton-up Younus helps Pakistan reach 219-4

Younus Khan’s record-equalling 25th Test century rescued Pakistan on the opening day of the first Test against Australia, as the hosts ended on 219-4 after the quick removal of their openers at the Dubai Cricket International Stadium.

The veteran batsman became the first Pakistani cricketer to score a ton against all nine Test-playing nations, and the 12th international player overall to achieve the feat, as he made 106 off 223 deliveries, a knock that included a lone six and 10 boundaries.

“It’s a really nice feeling to score my first Test century against Australia and become the first Pakistani to score a ton against all Test-playing nations,” said Younus.

“Equating the great Inzamamul Haq at 25 Test centuries is a source of immense delight for me. I enjoyed my hundred today [Wednesday] because it wasn’t easy to score runs. I had to survive the opening burst and pulsating heat to stay strong with Azhar Ali and build an important partnership that may prove vital in the remaining days of the Test.”

Asked if he would like to be referred to as the ‘Wall of Pakistan’, Younus said that if the media agree, he would be more than happy with the name.

Hafeez, Shehzad bow out early

Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first on a pitch that seemed promising for batsmen. However, they were checked in their tracks almost instantly by Australian pacers, led by none other than Mitchell Johnson, who dismissed Muhammad Hafeez (nought) in the first over.

Johnson bowled a short ball and then an in-swinging Yorker, which caught Hafeez napping and crushed his toe. Thereafter, Peter Siddle dismissed Ahmed Shehzad (three) to leave Pakistan 7-2 in just 3.1 overs.

The Aussies upped the ante against Younus and Azhar, but both remained stoic and survived the opening overs with a dogged approach, with the latter being dropped by Chris Rodgers on 22.

As time went by, both batsmen started assuming control of the situation and went onto build a 108-run stand, but Azhar was undone by Johnson at 53 that came off 167 balls with the help of six boundaries.

Younus continued to fight from the other end and accumulated 85 runs for a fifth-wicket partnership with captain Misbahul Haq, and in the process scored his record ton.

“It was important to get the partnerships going and Azhar played a gutsy knock,” added Younus. “It’s good to see a junior player doing well against a tough opposition.”

The new ball did the trick for the Australians as Johnson trapped Younus leg-before in the 81st over; Misbah (34) and Asad Shafiq (nine) survived and remained undefeated at the close of play.

Meanwhile, Johnson stated it was difficult to bowl on a pitch that was getting slower.

“The pitch was getting slower and the conditions were hard,” he said. “Thus, we tried to work on reverse-swing as a pace-bowling unit, and it’s something we did in Zimbabwe as well.”

 

Stumps on day one, 1835: Pak 219-4 (90 overs)

Asad Shafiq escapes an LBW appeal in the last over. Misbah (34) and Shafiq (9) will resume Pakistan's innings on day two.

 

1825: Pak 215-4 (88 overs)

Asad Shafiq pulls Nathan Lyon for a boundary towards deep mid-wicket in the 88th over. Just two overs remaining in the day.

 

1815: Pak 208-4 (86 overs)

Asad Shafiq (2 off 22) is following Misbah's (30 off 93) snail pace while scoring runs.

 

1746: Pak 200-4 (81.5)

200 comes up for Pakistan. Misbahul Haq and Asad Shafiq carry the innings for Pakistan.

 

1727: Pak 198-4 (80.2 overs)

Younus Khan caught LBW by Mitchell Johnson on 106 off 223 deliveries. He scored 10 boundaries and hit one six.

 

1722: Pak 198-3 (80 overs)

Younus Khan scores his 25th century to equal Inzamamul Haq's record for the most centuries by a Pakistan in Tests. He also becomes the first Pakistani to score centuries against all Test playing nations.

 

1730: Pak 185-3 (77 overs)

Younus enters the nervous nineties as he scores 96 off 214 balls. However, Misbah (24) is in no mood to accelerate his scoring rate and is relying on Younus to add runs to the total.

 

1715: Pak 168-3 (73 overs)

Younus reaches 81 while Misbah is batting on 22.

 

1643: Pak 146-3 (66 overs)

A boundary by Younus in the 64th over, a double and a single run allows him to add seven more runs in three overs to Pakistan's total. Meanwhile, Misbah stays silent on the pitch defending the wicket.

 

1630: Pak 139-3 (63 overs)

Misbah (15) and Younus (59) add seven more runs in three overs.

 

1617: Pak 132-3 (60 overs)

The skipper and the Test veteran are scoring runs slowly and steadily hoping to end the day without any more loss of wickets.

 

1600: Pak 125-3 (57 overs)

Misbahul Haq and Younus Khan start Pakistan innings after tea on day one.

 

1540: Pak 125-3 (57 overs)

Tea-break.

 

1521: Pak 115-3 (52.5 overs)

Azhar Ali departs for 53 off 167 balls. Mitchell Johnson claims the wicket, Doolan bags the catch.

 

Pakistan quickly lose openers in first Test

Pakistan struggled to 50-2 at lunch on the opening day of the first Test against Australia on Wednesday after losing their openers in the first four overs.

Australia's new-ball pair of Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle quickly removed Mohammad Hafeez (nought) and Ahmed Shehzad (three) after Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat on a dry and grassless pitch at Dubai stadium.

 

Pakistan bats in first Australia Test

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq won the toss and decided to bat in the first Test against Australia in Dubai on Wednesday.

Pakistan, without their ace spinner Saeed Ajmal who was last month suspended for illegal bowling action, gave debuts to leg-spinner Yasir Shah and paceman Imran Khan.

They have also included a second spinner, left-armer Zulfiqar Babar.

Australia handed Test caps to all rounder Mitchell Marsh and left-armer Steve O'Keefe, and second spinner to Nathan Lyon.

The second and final Test is in Abu Dhabi from October 30.

 

Teams
Pakistan: Misbah-ul Haq (C), Ahmed Shehzad, Mohammad Hafeez, Younis Khan, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, Rahat Ali, Imran Khan, Sarfraz Ahmed, Zulfiqar Babar, Yasir Shah.
Australia: Michael Clarke (C), David Warner, Chris Rogers, Alex Doolan, Steven Smith, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Johnson, Steve O'Keefe, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon.