Azhar Ali impresses for Pakistan on rain-affected opening day of Roseau Test
Thursday 11 May 2017 11:56, UK
Azhar Ali made an unbeaten half-century as Pakistan struggled through a rain-hit first day of the decisive third Test against West Indies at Roseau.
Live Test Cricket
The home side's 106-run win in Bridgetown last week meant the series remains in the balance, but Azhar batted all day to remain unbeaten on 85, while Babar Azam added 55 as the tourists reached 169 for two at the close.
Having dismissed Pakistan cheaply in the second Test to claim a win, Jason Holder opted to bowl first in favourable conditions and was rewarded as the recalled Shan Masood edged Roston Chase to slip for just nine.
That brought Babar Azam to the crease on the back of a pair in Bridgetown, but the 22-year-old played without alarm before persistent rain forced an early end to the afternoon session.
Shane Dowrich earlier missed a sharp catch to get rid of Azhar, but was later guilty of missing a far more straightforward catch to dismiss Azam as he failed to get a hand on an inside edge.
Pakistan were bogged down by some tight bowling from the hosts but the pair continued, adding 120 for the second wicket before Azam was caught in two minds by Alzarri Joseph and edged to slip for 55.
Younus Khan was given a guard of honour on his way to the crease in what could be his final Test and finished the day unbeaten on 10, alongside Azhar who rode his luck to see out the day on 85 not out.
