Karachi Test: Babar Azam scores century as Pakistan gains control

KARACHI: Pakistan captain Babar Azam finally scored a Test century after a gap of two years during the match against Australia at the National Stadium.

The Pakistani skipper completed his century after sweeping Mitchell Swepson at fine leg in the 78th over. This was Babar’s sixth Test century. As soon as Babar hit the ball, the crowd and his teammates lauded the skipper for his “epic” century.

Pakistan were currently chasing a 506-run target and Babar is at the crease with opener Abdullah Shafique. At the end of day 4, Pakistan are at 192-2 and require 314 runs to win with 8 wickets in hand.

Earlier, Australia declared their first innings on 556 for nine and then skittled out Pakistan for 148 to seize control of the second test in Karachi.

After more than two days of leather-hunt under a harsh sun at the National Stadium, Pakistan’s handed Australia a mammoth first innings lead of 408. The hosts were spared a follow-on but Australia’s overall lead bulged to 489 as the touring side finished day three on 81-1.

Opener Usman Khawaja was batting on 35 with Marnus Labuschagne on 37. Australia scored 51 runs in nine overs before declaring their innings immediately after crossing the 550-mark.