Follow UsHaving conceded a lead of 408 in the first innings, it looked like a matter of time before Pakistan would be bowled out in the second innings. However, ably led from the front by Babar Azam’s 196, Pakistan not only drew the match but also posed a tough challenge to the visiting bowlers in the second innings.
Commenting on Pakistan’s thrilling draw, PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja credited the team for absorbing the pressure well in Karachi. Abdullah Shafique (96) and Mohammad Rizwan (104) too played an impactful knock to save the Test for the nation.
“Some matches test your character, your will. We saw today that Pakistan, for two days, fought and saved the Test. For Pakistan, this batting performance was probably the best-ever in a match-saving cause,” said Ramiz Raja in the video posted by PCB.
"Australia maintained the pressure till the end. We saw how strong they are mentally. The whole world was watching this game. Pakistan absorbed the pressure really well,” added Raja.
Babar broke several fourth-innings records, scoring 196 off 425 balls during his nearly ten hours stay at the crease. The PCB Chairman called it the “best innings” of his life, especially under such circumstances.
“I don't know what to say about Babar. He probably played the best innings of his life. When you know that you can't afford to make mistakes, pressure builds automatically. Additionally, the close-in fielders add to the pressure and you have to revisit the process. But it was a brilliant batting performance,” said Ramiz.
“You need to change gears, you need to be defensive, there are opportunities where you can hit shots but you have to resist, you need to build partnerships with tailenders, but you cannot take your eye away for one second,” he added.