2nd Test: Babar hundred stalls Australia's victory march in Karachi

Babar Azam's glorious unbeaten 102 kept Pakistan alive but Australia remained on course for victory in the second Test in Karachi on Tuesday. Set a record victory target of 506, Pakistan lost two quick wickets but Babar would not go down without a fight. The right-hander combined with opener Abdullah Shafique in a 171-run unbroken partnership for the third wicket in a spectacular rearguard spread over nearly 60 overs.

Pakistan finished day four on 192-2, still 314 behind their target and needing something extraordinary on Wednesday to deny Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-Test series. Babar's sixth Test century contained 12 fours. Abdullah was batting on 71, which included four fours and a six.

Earlier, Australia batted for 25 minutes on Tuesday before declaring their second innings on 97-2, challenging Pakistan to pull off the greatest fourth innings chase in Test cricket history. Marnus Labuschagne fell for 44, while his Islamabad-born teammate Usman Khawaja followed his first innings 160 with an unbeaten 44. CUMMINS STRIKESAfter four maiden overs of pace bowling against Pakistan, Australia captain Pat Cummins unleashed spin from both ends and was rewarded almost immediately.

Nathan Lyon caught opener Imam-ul-Haq (one) plumb in front of the wicket for one in his first over. Cummins introduced Cameron Green after lunch and the all-rounder responded by ending Azhar Ali's 54-ball stay with his second delivery. Azhar (six) ducked under a short delivery that never rose and was given lbw even though replays suggested the ball had brushed his glove before hitting him.