Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has scored his maiden Test century against possibly the best bowling attack in the world to steer his side into a powerful position at stumps on the first day in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan are 1-245 at the day’s close after ul-Haq, whose top score before this Test was 74, compiled a superb 132 not out from 271 balls against an Australian attack spearheaded by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Cameron Green and Nathan Lyon.
Australia’s touring party, the first to visit Pakistan since 1998 due to security issues, were reminded of the dangers of the sub-continental country when news broke of at least 30 people being killed in a bombing about a three-hour drive away.
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But the Test continued uninterrupted as ul-Haq peeled off his century from 200 balls.
The left-hander was helped by teammates at the other end with fellow opener Abdullah Shafique contributing 44 and first drop Azhar Ali an unbeaten 62.
Australia were gifted the only wicket of the day when Shafique charged down the pitch and took a wild slog at a Lyon delivery during the second-last over before lunch, only to sky it to Cummins at mid-on.
“He’d probably be having lunch in the other room, I’d reckon,” laughed former Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds on Fox Cricket.
But after captain Babar Azam won the toss and elected to bat, Pakistan’s openers combined for a 100-run stand.
Ul-Haq and Ali then carved out a 100-run partnership of their own.
Ul-Huq leapt high in the air, pumped his right fist and embraced Ali in an emotional hug when a cover drive for four off the bowling of Starc brought up his century during the final session.
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The 26-year-old then looked to the heavens as he raised his arms, before bowing on his knees and kissing the turf, his teammates and those in the crowd standing and applauding.
“Special day and such a special performance,” said former Australia quick Michael Kasprowicz on Fox Cricket.
“Winning and deciding to bat, Imam obviously wanted to back the captain’s judgment, and he’s done that today … He’s done everyone proud … So patient, the skill, the timing was really good.”
The opening Test of this series is ul-Haq’s first since Pakistan met Australia at Adelaide Oval in the 2019-20 summer.
“I was just waiting for my opportunity … and these are the moments that we play for,” ul-Haq said on Fox Cricket.
“To be honest, I cannot explain right now how I’m feeling.
“You cannot doubt yourself. As a cricketer you have to believe in your ability and you have to work harder … I had that belief.”
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