Australia on verge of Test victory | Thebigtip

Butt gives Pakistan hope - By Tom Wold in London, England from foxsports.com.au

Spinner Steve Smith claimed his maiden Test scalp as opener Salman Butt commenced Pakistan's unlikely push for victory in the third Test at Lord's.

Needing a world record 440 to win, Pakistan were 1-114 at stumps on day three with Butt (58no) and debutant Azhar Ali (28no) unbeaten.

After being introduced in the 12th over of the innings, Smith (1-34) opened his Test account with just his 13th delivery when opener Imran Farhat (24) miscued a pull shot to Shane Watson at midwicket.

The 21-year-old legspinner delighted in his breakthrough and warmed into his work in the London sunshine, finding dip and some serious turn out of the rough during his 13-over spell.

The Lord's pitch is in excellent condition following two-and-a-half days of wet, overcast weather but Smith looks like he could play an important role on day four.

Ben Hilfenhaus was desperately unlucky not to dismiss Azhar with the final ball of the day, umpire Rudi Koertzen turning down his appeal despite the ball clearly trapping him in front.

Hilfenhaus (56no) earlier scored his maiden Test half-century as Australia's tail wagged furiously from 8-208 to 334 in their second innings.

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