Azhar, Warner run-feast illuminates Melbourne test

Azhar Ali’s epic unbeaten 205 raised Pakistan’s hopes of a series-levelling victory after lunch before David Warner crushed them ruthlessly with an exhilarating runa-ball 144 after tea. Warner, who shared in a 198-run partnership with Usman Khawaja, propelled Australia to 278 for two at stumps, having slashed the deficit to 165 runs after the tourists declared their first innings at 443 for nine. Although both players enjoyed reaching a string of milestones, their innings shared little else in common. 

Right-hander Azhar had to grind through six rain interruptions over the course of his nine-and-a-half hour knock and marched off unbeaten after 364 balls. Left-hander Warner had to labour in sapping heat and humidity, but only for 48.5 overs before being caught behind feathering an edge off Wahab Riaz. 

The 30-year-old also survived a string of edges to complete his 17th ton, his first in nearly a year and first at the MCG, which had been a conspicuous void in his burgeoning resume. Warner also raced past 5,000 test runs during the innings to join an honour roll of Australians including Don Bradman, Ricky Ponting and the Chappell brothers. 

Azhar became the first from the south Asian nation to surpass 200 twice in a year, having struck an unbeaten 302 against West Indies in Dubai in October. 

BRIEF SCORES: Pakistan 443/9 decl. (Azhar Ali 205*, Sohail Khan 65, Asad Shafiq 50, J Hazlewood 3/50) vs Australia 278/2 (D Warner 144, U Khawaja 95*)