Pakistan close in on win after Zulfiqar​ Babar strikes twice

Australia were in deep trouble on 117-7 at lunch Sunday on the fifth and final day of the first Test as Pakistan eyed victory.

Dubai: Left-arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar picked up two wickets in the morning to take his innings tally to four as Pakistan tightened the noose around Australia by reducing them to 117 for seven at lunch on the final day of the first test.

Australia, resuming on 59 for four, showed fight to keep the Pakistan bowlers at bay for more than 80 minutes but lost three quick wickets once the resistance was broken.

Steve Smith (31) and Mitchell Johnson (seven) were at the crease at the lunch break, with the Australians staring at a stinging defeat.

Opener Chris Rogers (43) was bowled by debutant Imran Khan for the only wicket to fall to the fast bowlers in Australia`s second innings after he and Smith added 43 for the fifth wicket.

The 35-year-old Babar, playing his third test, got in on the act by dismissing all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for three. 

Debutant Marsh prodded forward to a delivery and the catch was held smartly at silly point by Azhar Ali.

Brad Haddin, Australia`s last recognised batsman to join Smith, did not last long either and went for a duck as Babar breached his defence to disturb the stumps.