Karachi: Huge score for New Zealand in first test cricket against Pakistan. They declared 612 runs for nine in the first innings. Pakistan, who started batting in the second innings, had 77 runs over two when they stopped play on the fourth day.
Imam-ul-Haq, who scored 45 runs off 83 balls, and Nauman Ali (four) are in the corner. Nothing less than a draw with just one day to go is expected. Abdullah Shafiq (17) and Shan Masood (10) were out. Pakistan to join New Zealand on 97 runs. Ex-captain Kane Williamson’s double century lifted New Zealand to their best score. Williamson went unbeaten from 200 runs off 395 balls, including a six and 21 fours. Williamson’s fifth double century in his Test career was born yesterday. The double century came as a relief to Williamson whose form started to fade. As of 2019 Williamson fails to excel. He scored 233 runs in eight away tests.
Kane Williamson and Ish Sodhi (65 off 180 balls) were in trouble when play paused on day three. Williamson’s 25th Test Century was born. Opener Tom Latham (113 off 191 balls) also scored a century. Opener Devon Conway also did well (92 balls out of 176). Henty Nicholls (22), Darryl Mitchell (42 off 47 balls with one six and seven fours) and Tom Blundell (47 off 116 balls with one six and three fours) were also dismissed. Abrar Ahmed took five wickets and Nauman Ali three wickets for Pakistan. Mohammad Wasi took one wicket.
