Photo: Cricinfo
On the opening day of the four-day tour match against Australia’s Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, Pakistan posted a total of 324 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 89.4 overs. Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, team captain Shan Masood witnessed a mix of partnerships and setbacks.
The innings began with Imamul Haq and Abdullah Shafiq at the crease. While Imam managed 9 runs before departing, Abdullah contributed 38 runs to the total. Shan Masood, alongside Babar Azam, then constructed a solid partnership, amassing 92 runs for the third wicket. Babar’s innings concluded at 40 runs, followed by modest contributions from Saud Shakeel (13 runs) and Sarfaraz Ahmed (41 runs).
Towards the end of the day’s play, Faheem Ashraf scored 17 runs but fell just two balls before stumps. Notably, Captain Shan Masood remains unbeaten at 156 runs, featuring 13 boundaries and a six.
The Prime Minister’s XI bowlers put up a commendable effort, with Jordan Buckingham claiming 3 wickets, while Mark Scaddy and Todd Murphy secured one wicket each.
