Asad Shafiq and tail delay Australia' win in Gabba Test

Brisbane [Australia], Dec. 18 (ANI): An unbeaten century from Pakistan's Asad Shafiq under pressure delayed a probable victory on the fourth day of the first Test here at the Gabba on Sunday. Pakistan, who bundled out for mere 142 runs in reply to Australia's massive first innings total of 429, showcased a better performance with the bat in their first day-night Test. At Stumps on Day 4, the Misbah-ul-Haq side were left reeling at 382-8, the highest fourth innings total at the Gabba. Resuming at the overnight score of 70-2, Pakistan showed the kind of application and grit that was need as they added 312 runs and lost six wickets. Shafiq was unbeaten at the crease at 100 along with Yasir Shah (4) at the end of day's play. Apart from Shafiq, Azhar Ali and veteran Younis Khan also made noticeable contributions of 71 and 65. Left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Amir also hung in there at the crease and frustrated the Aussie bowlers before he got out on 48. For the home side, Mitchell Starc and Jackson Bird pick of the bowlers as they scalped three wickets while off-spinner Nathon Lyon took two other wickets. The hosts would enter Day 5 as clear favourites to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series as the visitors still require 108 runs with just two wickets. (ANI)