Langer puts Aussies in charge

Justin Langer became the highest run-scorer in Test cricket in 2004 with another masterful innings in Perth to give Australia the upper hand in the first Test against Pakistan.

Langer, on his home ground, smashed 181 not out as Australia finished the opening day on 357 for eight.

When he moved on to 41 midway through the afternoon session, Langer passed Brian Lara to become the most prolific batsman in the calendar year.

Adam Gilchrist also played his part for Australia with a near run-a-ball 69 as the hosts hit back after Pakistan had dominated the opening session.

Shoaib Akhtar finished with figures of four for 89 after removing opener Matthew Hayden (four), Darren Lehmann (12) and Michael Clarke (one) as Australia slipped to 78 for five.

With Mohammad Sami picking up the wickets of captain Ricky Ponting (25) and Damien Martyn (one) the hosts were struggling just after lunch.

However, the combination of Langer's patience and Gilchrist's explosive hitting worked well as Pakistan's change bowlers struggled to make an impact.

The partnership eventually came to an end when Gilchrist, whose 69 came off just 78 balls and included 10 fours, played back to a Abdul Razzaq delivery and only succeeded in getting an inside-edge on to the stumps.

Shane Warne (12) pulled Razzaq to Yousuf Youhana before Jason Gillespie gave Langer some valuable late support with a stubborn 24.

Gillespie eventually departed, caught by keeper Kamran Akmal off the bowling of Shoaib, prompting Langer to go for some attacking shots with tailender Michael Kasprowicz (four not out) at the other end.