In India, viewers woke up to witness Australia’s commanding performance in Perth, where David Warner and Usman Khawaja constructed an unbroken century partnership for the opening duo. Despite the challenging situation for Pakistan, missed opportunities could have significantly altered the game’s dynamics.
The initial chance arrived in the 16th over, bowled by debutant Aamer Jamal, when Khawaja attempted to attack a short delivery. However, the Aussie failed to connect properly, sending the ball soaring high into the Perth sky.
Abdullah Shafique, positioned at first slip, attempted the catch but appeared uncertain, ultimately spilling what should have been a routine opportunity, as the ball deflected off his chest and trickled over the boundary.
While Khawaja was eventually dismissed for a 41 off 98 balls, Warner, amid recent criticism, appeared determined. The 37-year-old notched his 26th Test century without giving Pakistan a chance. Nevertheless, after reaching this milestone, Warner granted Pakistan an opportunity to dismiss him.
Agha Salman pitched the ball up, prompting Warner to come down the track and aim for a lofted shot over mid-on. Despite Khurram Shahzad positioning himself correctly, the pacer dropped the catch, allowing the ball to slip through his fingers and race away for another boundary.
A very eventful bye 🫣 #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/kbyL7gtaYg
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 14, 2023
— Virat Sharma (@ViratSharm39743) December 14, 2023
— Virat Sharma (@ViratSharm39743) December 14, 2023
Just when it seemed the younger players were struggling, the seasoned veterans, former captains, stepped up. On the first delivery of the 64th over, Salman enticed Warner with a similar ball. However, the Australian batsman failed to connect as anticipated.
Although the ball bounced more than expected, Sarfraz missed collecting it for a stumping opportunity, deflecting it off his shoulder into the hands of Babar Azam at first slip. Despite Azam attempting a shy at the stumps, the throw missed by a significant margin. This missed chance not only let Warner off the hook but also added an extra run for Australia, landing in an unguarded area.