The hosts did not get off to a better start on Day 1 of the first test match between Pakistan and New Zealand, with early wickets tumbling. However, Babar Azam took charge of the situation, playing a captain knock and scoring a century.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, who has been absent from the international test circuit for over four years, joined him. The ex-skipper, who felt like he was making his debut in his 50th test after a long absence, went on to play a key role, scoring 86 runs. The first inning was capped off by Salman Ali Agha's maiden century, which pushed Pakistan's total to 438.
"Obviously, I am feeling proud because you cannot define the sentiments of getting a maiden century within your home ground," he remarked, opening up on his enormous contribution and coming across a milestone.
"The wicket would change on the fourth or fifth day, and it will be difficult to bat on," he remarked of the surface.
According to a journalist, Agha was not present for England's first inning and did not bowl despite possessing excellent off-spin skills. He stated,
"I wasn't feeling well and was dizzy enough that I couldn't show off my off-spin. I hope for bowling the next day." he added.
He was questioned if he is getting well in tests due of his surplus experience in first-class cricket, to which he said,
"When you play so much first-class cricket, you settle well into international cricket. The scenarios I see in tests are similar to those I've encountered in practice.
Agha was asked whether or not he wanted to bat at the top or middle order, and he said,
"I have been batting at number 5th in domestic cricket, but you can't always achieve what you wish for in international cricket. I'll keep performing and, perhaps, will be able to play as the fifth or sixth batter instead of as a tailender."
