Imam’s maiden Test ton draws first blood for Pak

Opener Imam-ul-Haq hit a memorable first test century on Friday and led Pakistan to a commanding 245-1 in its first home test against Australia in 24 years.

The left-hander closed out the opening day of the first test on 132 not out on a typically slow and grassless subcontinent wicket.

Veteran Azhar Ali is also looking solid on 64 not out. “It’s been a tough day for me, but that’s how you progress,” said Imam, who played his last test against Australia in December 2019 before returning Friday to face 271 balls in his marathon comeback innings.

“I was working hard and that’s it,” said Imam, who hit 15 fours and two sixes. Australia might have missed a trick by opting to go with its three frontline fast bowlers, who hardly troubled the batters with both the new and old ball. Australia even used its three part-time spinners — Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head and Steve Smith — without any reward.

It’s the first time Australia has played a test match in Pakistan since 1998 due to concerns over security from several attacks in Pakistan. It’s a threematch test series. (AP)

Scores: Pakistan 245/1 (Imam Ul Haq 132*; Azhar Ali 64*; Nathan Lyon 1-87) vs Australia.