NEW DELHI: Pakistan fought back from a precarious position to finish the opening day of the third Test against Australia with a total of 313 at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday.
After a shaky start, Mohammad Rizwan, Agha Salman, and Aamer Jamal played crucial roles in the comeback, frustrating the Australian bowlers.
Scorecard: Australia vs Pakistan, 3rd Test Day 1
Winning the toss, Pakistan faced early setbacks, losing five wickets with just 96 runs on the board. However, a spirited counter-attack ensued, led by Rizwan, who scored a brisk 88 off 103 balls, and Salman, contributing a fighting 53 off 67 balls.
Jamal's spirited 82 off 97 deliveries further bolstered Pakistan's innings. The tailenders chipped in with valuable runs, ensuring a respectable total.
Australia's skipper Pat Cummins continued his exceptional form, claiming a five-wicket haul for the third successive innings, finishing with figures of 5 for 61. Despite Cummins' heroics, Pakistan's lower-order resistance frustrated the Australian bowlers.
In response, David Warner, playing in his 112th and final Test match, faced a tense final over but managed to see it out, finishing the day unbeaten on six. Australia will resume their innings on day two at 6 without loss.
The day began on a high note for Australia as they dominated the morning session, dismissing Pakistan's top order early. Openers Abdullah Shafique and debutant Saim Ayub fell for ducks, setting the tone for a challenging day for Pakistan.
However, Rizwan, Salman, and Jamal orchestrated a remarkable recovery, putting Pakistan in a more competitive position.
Australia, having already clinched the three-match series with a win in Melbourne, faced unexpected resistance from a determined Pakistani side. The Sydney Test promises more intriguing battles between the two teams as the match unfolds.
(With inputs from AFP)
