The two-match test series between Pakistan and New Zealand started today at Karachi National Stadium. Pakistan’s skipper Babar Azam is showing his class in this match. He is now leading Pakistan towards a big score.
Toss: At Karachi Stadium, captain Babar Azam won the toss and decided to bat first today.
Top order failed against the Kiwis.
Abdullah Shafique and Imamul Haque came into the crease to start the innings for Pakistan. Unfortunately, they failed to contribute much to the team. They picked up only 12 runs in the opening partnership.
In the 4th over, Pakistan lost their first wicket as Abdullah Shafique departed the crease after scoring only seven runs. Shan Masood, the following batter of Pakistan, also failed to get enough runs. He lost the wicket to Michael Bracewell. Then, Imamul Haque worked hard to establish a long-term partnership. Unfortunately, he couldn’t score more than 24 runs.
The Captain took responsibility
As the top order crumbled, Pakistan’s captain stepped forward to rescue the team. Pakistan were three wickets down within 15 overs. They picked up only 48 runs after losing four batters. It seemed the home team couldn’t go far enough in this innings.
But then Pakistan’s captain came in and started playing the cameo. He was very careful between the stumps. He made a crucial partnership of 62 runs with Saud Shakeel.
Their partnership was looking good, but kiwi pacer Tim Southee broke their partnership. In the 29th over, Tim Southee picked up Saud Shakeel. However, Shakeel added 22 runs before losing the wicket.
After that, Sarfaraz came in and helped Babar Azam make a long partnership. From 29th over, they batted, batted, and batted against the Kiwi bowlers. Sarfaraz and Babar picked up half-century respectively. Both batters were heading to get centuries. Unfortunately, Sarfaraz Ahmed had to go back to the pavilion as Ajaz Patel picked him up in the 86th over. However, Sarfaraz Ahmed scored 86 runs before losing the wicket.
On the other hand, Babar Azam didn’t make any mistakes and got the century. He remained not out in 161 runs. Relying on his bat, Pakistan ended their Day 1 with 317 runs. Babar Azam will continue batting with Agha Salman tomorrow.
Score Card
Pakistan: 317/5
Day 1
