In a thrilling opening session of the 1st Test between Australia and Pakistan in Perth, the home team seized control as openers David Warner and Usman Khawaja showcased a masterful batting performance. Winning the toss and opting to bat, Australian captain Pat Cummins’ decision proved fruitful as the dynamic duo guided the team to an imposing 117/0 in just 25 overs before Lunch was declared.
Warner, playing in what could potentially be his last series, exhibited his trademark aggressive style right from the outset. This approach appeared to unsettle Pakistan’s spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, who struggled to find his rhythm in the opening spell. Despite a couple of fortunate edges narrowly avoiding fielders, Warner settled into his groove, reaching an impressive half-century. His attacking prowess set the tone for Australia’s dominant session.
Khawaja, on the other hand, played the role of the calm anchor, providing steady support to Warner’s onslaught. His fortunes changed on 21 when Aamer Jamal’s delivery found the edge, only for Abdullah Shafique to spill the chance. Pakistan’s bowling, led by Afridi, was described as “strictly OK,” with the need for increased support from the fielders emphasized.
New Pakistan captain Shan Masood, eager to make an impact, introduced two debutants, Aamer Jamal and Khurram Shahzad, into the pace-dominated attack, leaving out a specialist spinner. However, the decision did not yield the desired results in the opening session.
Despite the bowlers struggling to make an impact, runs flowed at an impressive rate of almost 5 runs per over, showcasing Australia’s dominance in the initial stages of the Test. As the two accomplished batters look to extend their partnership and set a formidable total, Pakistan faces the challenge of regaining control in the subsequent sessions.