Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel played key roles in helping Pakistan end Day 1 of the first Test on a high note, both scoring resilient half-centuries after the match's delayed start at Multan Cricket Stadium on Friday. When stumps were drawn, Pakistan stood at 143-4 in 41.3 overs.

By PakPassion Staff (17-01-2025)

The pair came together with Pakistan in a precarious position at 46-4 following early setbacks. They managed to put together an unbroken 97-run partnership for the fifth wicket, facing 169 balls.

Saud, who entered the crease at 31-3 in the 10th over, struck four boundaries in his 100-ball 56 not out, marking his ninth Test half-century. Rizwan, on the other hand, hit seven boundaries to bring up his 11th Test half-century, finishing the day unbeaten on 51 from 80 balls.

The start of the match was delayed due to bad weather, and the toss took place after the scheduled lunch break.

Mohammad Huraira, making his debut as Pakistan’s 258th Test player, opened the batting alongside captain Shan Masood but was dismissed for a 15-ball six off Jayden Seales in the sixth over. Shan was caught behind off left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie in the following over.

Seales then struck again in the 10th over, removing Kamran Ghulam leg-before, with the decision being upheld after a review. Babar Azam became Seales’ third victim of the day when he was caught behind, with debutant Tevin Imlach taking his third catch of the match.