Babar Azam then batted together with Shan to add 92 runs to the total.
In his debut as Pakistan’s captain, Shan Masood showcased his prowess by notching up his 25th first-class century on the opening day of the four-day game against Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval in Canberra. Opting to bat after winning the toss, Pakistan faced an early setback when right-arm pacer Jordan Buckingham dismissed opening batter Imam-ul-Haq for 9 runs.
Shan Masood took charge at the crease during the eighth over, with Pakistan at 18-1. The 34-year-old captain exhibited exceptional skill, crafting an unbeaten innings of 156 runs from 235 deliveries. His innings included 13 boundaries and a six, steering Pakistan to a total of 324-6 after 89.4 overs by the end of the day. Despite the fall of six wickets on the other end, Shan Masood’s brilliant performance ensured Pakistan remained in contention for an impressive first-innings total. His leadership and batting prowess were evident as he held one end throughout the day, emerging as the top-scorer for the team. Shan had joined opening batter Abdullah Shafique (38, 76b, 1×4) on the crease. The two stitched a 58-run stand before the latter was caught at short cover after mistiming a length ball delivered by Steketee.
Babar Azam then batted together with Shan to add 92 runs to the total. Buckingham struck again to take Pakistan’s most prized wicket as Babar walked back to the pavilion after scoring 40 from 88, including five fours.
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The next batter in, Saud Shakeel (13, 35b, 1×4), failed to stay on the crease for too long as he fell victim to off-spinner Todd Murphy. Wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed produced a brisk 41 from 47, studded with six boundaries before he was caught off Buckingham’s bowling. The partnership between Shan and Sarfaraz yielded a total of 73 runs for the fifth wicket.
Faheem Ashraf (17, 35b, 1×4) was the last batter to fall today as Pakistan ended the day at 324-6 after batting for 89.4 overs.
The second day’s play at Manuka Oval will resume on 0430 PKT.
Scores in brief:
Pakistan 324-6, 89.4 overs (Shan Masood 156 not out, Sarfaraz Ahmed 41, Babar Azam 40, Abdullah Shafique 38; Jordan Buckingham 3-63, Mark Steketee 1-43, Nathan McAndrew 1-55, Todd Murphy 1-90)
