Cricket: Pakistan take first innings lead at SCG

Salman Butt of Pakistan cuts the ball during day two of the Second Test match between Australia and Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY- A century partnership between openers Imran Farhat and Salman Butt has given Pakistan the chance to post a massive first-innings lead against Australia in the second test at the SCG.

The tourists are 190 for two at tea on day two after Australia were skittled for 127.

Faisal Iqbal is 24 not and his skipper Mohammad Yousuf is on 27.

Farhat made 53 after he was dropped at slip on 11 by Marcus North and almost run out on 40 and 42.

Spinner Nathan Hauritz removed Farhat after an attempted sweep shot lobbed into wicketkeeper Brad Haddin's gloves at 109 for one, while Butt (71) was caught behind 35 runs later as Mitchell Johnson broke through.

Pakistan's Mohammad Asif took a career-best 6-41 after Australia captain Ricky Ponting made the bold decision to bat first on a green-top pitch on a rain-affected opening day.

Australia lead the three-match series 1-0.

- AAP