Simon Harmer says the Proteas are aiming to restrict Pakistan to “anything below 400” in Lahore.

Pakistan made full use of winning the toss on day one of the first Test, reaching 313-5 at stumps.

Imam-ul-Haq (93) and captain Shan Masood (76) laid the platform before Mohammad Rizwan (62*) and Salman Agha (52*) lifted the hosts with an unbeaten 114-run stand for the sixth wicket.

“I think what you need to understand in the subcontinent is that the toss plays a big part,” Harmer said after the day’s play. “The best batting conditions are in the first session or on day one, so they got the luck of the draw with the toss and they maximised that.

“They batted well, they played extremely well. We created chances that didn’t go our way. The toss does play a role, and we didn’t get the rub of the green, which is fine. But I think it was still a solid day.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Pakistan vs Proteas (1st Test, Day 1)

The Proteas went into the match with three spinners – Senuran Muthusamy, Prenelan Subrayen and Harmer – who shared four of the five wickets.

Harmer insists the match is far from over.

“If we can restrict them to less than 380, we would have done a hell of a job,” he said. “Anything below 400 will be really good. We’re still going to have to bat well – partnerships and not losing wickets in clusters are going to be key.”

The day ended on a frustrating note with three dropped catches in the final session.

“Nobody means to drop catches,” Harmer said. “You get sharp chances. They batted well and have had the best of the conditions so far.

“It’s important for us to take the positives from today and make sure we get those next five wickets as quickly as we can tomorrow.”

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