‘We were outplayed,’ admits Paine  

Australia captain Tim Paine spoke to the press after salvaging a draw from the first Test against Pakistan. The visitors were almost certain to lose the Test after their first innings collapse but managed to save themselves from the jaws of defeat, thanks to the heroics of Usman Khawaja and captain Tim Paine.

The wicketkeeper-batsman, who ended up playing 194 balls to remain unbeaten and save the Test, stated that the match was an extremely tough one and that Pakistan played really well.

However, he also added that he is proud of the way his team came back into the game and mentioned that Khawaja played slower than usual because it was the plan.

“It was an extremely tough Test match. Pakistan played very well and had us under the pump for three days. Proud of our comeback. Everyone had a plan. Usman was more defensive than usual.”

In the third session, the Aussies were in a spot of bother as they lost Khawaja, who played over 300 balls, Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle in quick succession, paving the way for a Pakistan win.

However, things went according to plan according to Paine, who also admitted that he was nervous in the last part of the game.

“There was a bit of a collapse but the guys have been working hard over the last few months and I’m happy everything’s gone to plan.”

”I was nervous [in the last hour]. I think that’s how it happens here. If batsmen get in, it’s easy. Really proud of the way out tail stuck at it.”

Finally, the Aussie skipper admitted that his team were outplayed and conceded that the draw doesn’t feel like a win and that they can play better in the next Test.

“No, it doesn’t feel like a win. We were outplayed. Proud to get something out of it, but we can play a lot better in the next Test.”