Cricket-Pakistan board chief defends preparing lifeless pitch to thwart Australia

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Pakistan's cricket boss has hit back at criticism of the lifeless Rawalpindi pitch that produced a dull draw in the first test against Australia, saying it was necessary to nullify the tourists' attack while protecting the under-strength hosts.

Only 14 wickets fell in the series-opener, sparking condemnation from fans and media.

Pakistan board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja said in a video posted on the PCB's social media that a draw was "never a good advertisement for test cricket" but the hosts were focused on winning the three-match series.

"I understand the frustration of the fans - undoubtedly it would have been very good if we had a result, but this is a three-test series, and we need to understand that a lot of cricket still remains to be played," he said.

"Just for the heck of it, we can't prepare a fast pitch or a bouncy pitch and put the game in Australia's lap."

While Pakistan were hit by a slew of injuries in the leadup to the match, Raja said the board was also mindful of protecting their "brand new" opening batting combination of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq.

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