Usman Khawaja showed great resilience against Pakistan’s pace bowlers on a challenging Optus Stadium pitch, enabling Australia to take a strong lead in the first Test. Khawaja, who was hit on the arm by a hostile delivery, batted through the morning session and partnered with Mitchell Marsh to defy Pakistan’s bowlers. With the pitch deteriorating, Pakistan faces a tough challenge to avoid a 15th successive Test defeat in Australia. Australia resumed their innings with Khawaja and Steven Smith looking to build on their partnership. Smith received medical attention after being hit on the arm and was eventually dismissed by Khurram Shahzad. Travis Head also fell to a risky shot, but Marsh was lucky to survive a couple of close calls. Khawaja, who earlier received medical attention after being hit, reached a half-century with a determined performance. Australia will look to maintain their momentum after lunch as they consider declaring their innings.
