Pakistan captain Shan Masood struck an impressive century in the team's warm-up match against a Prime Minister's XI, setting the tone for the upcoming Test series against Australia.

Masood's Century Signals Pakistan's Intent in Australia Warm-up

Pakistan captain Shan Masood marked his authority with a commanding century in the team's four-day warm-up match against a Prime Minister's XI at Manuka Oval. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Masood displayed his batting prowess, guiding Pakistan to a strong position of 324-6 at stumps on the opening day.

Batting with composure and precision, Masood anchored the Pakistan innings, striking 13 boundaries and a six. His knock was a testament to his leadership and experience, providing a solid platform for the middle order to build upon.

Australia's bowlers toiled on a flat pitch at Manuka Oval, with speedster Jordan Buckingham emerging as the most successful bowler, claiming 3-63. However, the absence of all-rounder Cameron Green, who is currently sidelined from the Test side, left the Australian attack lacking a cutting edge.

The warm-up match provided an opportunity for aspiring Australian Test openers Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris, and Matt Renshaw to stake their claim for the position vacated by David Warner, who will retire from the longer format after the Pakistan series. The trio will face a stern challenge in the upcoming Test series against a formidable Pakistan side.

Pakistan's Test tour of Australia commences on December 14 with the first Test in Perth, followed by matches in Melbourne and Sydney. Masood's century in the warm-up match has sent a clear message of intent from the Pakistan team, setting the stage for an intriguing and closely contested Test series.