Australia vs Pakistan 2016: 1st Test, day 4 - 5 talking points
After putting up an embarrassing first innings total of 142 on a decent batting wicket, Pakistan look pretty close to setting the record for the highest successful run chase in Test cricket.
Although 108 runs are still needed, Pakistan have their saviour of the day, Asad Shafiq, unbeaten on 100. Their tailenders, Wahab Riaz and Mohammad Amir have already shown they can bat and Shafiq will be hoping for the same from Yasir Shah and Rahat Ali on the last day.
Australia might still be favourites to win the Test given that they have to take just two more wickets, but Pakistan have made it pretty evident that Starc and Hazlewood aren't unplayable. If they do manage to pull off the 490 chase, it will be a historic achievement for them. Australia, on the other hand, will have to get Shafiq early to avoid another loss in front of the home crowd.
Also read: Stats: Asad Shafiq breaks the all-time record for most Test centuries from number six
Here are the talking points from the day’s play at the Gabba.
#5 Azhar Ali and Younis make Australia work
Two senior Pakistan batsmen paved the way for the others by playing some resolute cricket on Day 4 of the first Test. Although chasing down 490 seemed improbable for this Pakistan line-up, the partnership between the two combined with a slight shower raised hopes of Pakistan saving the Test early on Day 4.
Ali and Younis defended all that was thrown at them. Ali took close to 11 overs to get off the mark and he was determined to make the Aussies toil in the field.
Younis, on the other hand, coming on the back of six pretty ordinary knocks, made sure he gave Ali good support, in his good old fashioned way. The 91 run partnership frustrated Australia as it consumed close to 34 overs.