Australia’s Warner Dominates Day One with a Stellar 164 against Pakistan

David Warner’s spectacular 164 on the opening day of the first Test at Perth Stadium set the stage for a compelling start to the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, propelling Australia to a commanding total of 346 for 5 at stumps against Pakistan. The day witnessed an exhibition of exceptional batting from the home side despite facing challenges from Pakistan’s pace attack.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pat Cummins’ decision proved fruitful as openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner provided a strong foundation. Their 126-run partnership laid the groundwork for Australia’s formidable start, crossing the 100-run mark without losing a wicket.

However, Pakistan struck back with Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissing Khawaja for 41 runs, setting the tone for their pace attack. Marnus Labuschagne contributed 16 before Faheem Ashraf sent him packing with a confident LBW appeal.

Warner continued to anchor the innings, showcasing his class alongside Steven Smith, adding 79 runs to the total before the latter fell to Khurram Shahzad for 31, marking Shahzad’s debut Test wicket.

Travis Head entered aggressively, scoring a brisk 40 before being caught by Salman Ali Agha off Aamir Jamal’s delivery, showcasing glimpses of his attacking gameplay.

Warner’s exceptional performance stole the limelight, constructing a resilient innings of 164 runs off 211 balls, comprising 16 boundaries and four towering sixes. Aamir Jamal eventually claimed Warner’s wicket on the final ball of the 75th over, a crucial breakthrough for Pakistan.

At the close of play on day one, Australia stood at 346 for 5 in 84 overs. Mitch Marsh (15 not out) and Alex Carey (14 not out) remained unbeaten, positioning Australia well for the upcoming day’s play.

The second day’s action promises to be an intriguing continuation, set to resume at Perth Stadium on 15 December, at 7:20 PKT. Warner’s exceptional century and Pakistan’s spirited pace attack have set the stage for an enthralling Test match in the Benaud-Qadir Trophy.

Brief Scores: Australia 346-5 in 84 overs (David Warner 164, Usman Khawaja 41, Travis Head 40; Aamir Jamal 2-63, Khurram Shahzad 1-62, Faheem Ashraf 1-65, Shaheen Shah Afridi 1-75)