Despite a good partnership between Babar Azam and Azhar Ali on the opening day of the third Test, Pakistan's batting struggled as England fought back.

After losing two wickets for 46 runs, Babar and Azhar joined forces to smash 71 runs off 78 balls to help Pakistan recover from its difficult position.

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The hosts, who entered this Test off a 2-0 series loss in Multan, were bowled out for 304 runs within 15 to 20 minutes of the end of play.

Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq, seemed satisfied while speaking to the media following a fairly successful day, but he stated they could have scored 75 to 100 more runs.

 "Overall, our performance was good but we could have done more better," said Saqlain who called Azhar and Babar's wickets, a breakthrough for England. 

"At one point, it looked like we will score around 350-400 runs. Babar and Azhar batted really well but unfortunately they got out on a wrong time," he added. 

The young mystery spinner who claimed a joint-record 11 wickets in the Multan Test took an early wicket of Zak Crawley at the end of the opening day.

"Abrar will play a crucial role not only in first session but throughout the day," said the coach. 

"Tomorrow is very important day for us. England will come up with their 'Bazball' formula obviously, now we have to play intelligent and controlled cricket to grab them earlier. If we manage to restrict them to 220-225, we will be in the driving seat," he stressed.