Australia’s opener David Warner lauded Pakistan’s bowlers after the end of the first day’s play in Melbourne on Tuesday.
Pakistan restricted Australia to 187-3 in the Boxing Day Test after a rain-affected day allowed only 66 overs to be bowled.
Warner said that pace doesn’t matter if you are bowling at a good line and length.
"I don't think it really matters about your pace if you're putting the ball in the right areas. Pakistan bowled extremely well today. I was taken aback by how many overs Shaheen has bowled already. It was a long day for him. If you're not bowling quick in Australia, you have to hit the right line and length to create something. These guys [Pakistan's pacers] have been outstanding. Shaheen bowled well today with not a lot of luck,” Warner said after the first day’s play.
It must be noted that legendary bowler Waqar Younis and Australia’s speedster Mitchell Starc had questioned Pakistan’s lack of pace before the ongoing second Test.
Meanwhile, Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali, who claimed one wicket during the first day, was also satisfied with his team’s performance.
“As a unit, we bowled well today. We have the upper hand as we didn't leak runs. But we're not complacent that the job is done – a long way to go. If we get them out for under 250, we'll have a great chance to win," Hasan said.
The hosts are looking to seal the three-Test series after thumping the visitors by 360 runs in Perth.
Pakistan have performed poorly in Australia, losing 15 Tests on the trot with their last win in 1995.
- David Warner
