Day 1 of the first Test between Australia and Pakistan in Perth saw an unexpected development when former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh voiced shock at Abdullah Shafique’s mishandled catch. Shafique lost an easy chance when 21-year-old Usman Khawaja tried to draw off a short delivery from rookie Aamer Jamal. Shafique attempted to run to get under the ball but was unable to make the catch, enabling the ball to cross the line.
Mark Waugh, who is currently a cricket pundit, said without holding back, “That was regulation, on any level of cricket, park cricket, under-10s.” It appeared to be his first attempt at taking a catch. That is not possible for you to accomplish. Not even against Australia, but against any team.”
Pakistan’s fielding problems were exacerbated later in the day when another debutant, Khurram Shahzad, failed to take a critical opportunity to dismiss David Warner for 104 just before tea.
Unimpressed with Shan Masood’s captaincy is Michael Hussey
Michael Hussey, a former cricket player from Australia, used the occasion to attack Shan Masood’s debut as Pakistan’s captain. Hussey said, “It’s regrettable, and as captain, you’d be disappointed with that because… you want to set the standards right from the word go.” Hussey was disappointed in Masood. However, it does occur. Moreover, it shouldn’t dictate the entire day.”
Masood’s individual on-field performances are not Hussey’s responsibility, as he noted, adding, “He’s not the one out there bowling the balls.” It’s not him who is making the mistakes. It’s not something he would have approved of. However, it does occur. That is not an acceptable reason for Australia to be enjoying a fantastic day.
Day 1’s high point came from David Warner’s 164, a stunning century and a half that hushed the doubters and put Australia in a dominant position. On Day 2, Pakistan would try to take control of the match with a strong bowling effort. Australia are 346/5 at the close of the first day, with Mitchell Marsh (15) and Alex Carey (14) in the middle.
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