Pakistan have forged a lead at the end of the fourth day of the second Test in Dubai, thanks to an unbeaten half-century from wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed.
Misbah-ul-Haq was dismissed three short of a century by spinner Rangana Herath (2-124), before a late partnership between Ahmed (67 not out) and Bilawal Bhatti (32) of 67 gave hope of staving off defeat by stretching the game into a fifth day, before the latter's dismissal.
Ahmed guided his side through the close of play and a lead of 107 with three second innings wickets in hand before rain halted proceedings.
Earlier, the tourists reduced Pakistan to 19-3 and the prospect of an innings defeat loomed large before Misbah's knock, aided by 77 from Younis Khan.
Both sides drew the first Test in Abu Dhabi last week.
Chris O'Keefe
