Three years after scoring a fighting fourth-innings 137 at the same ground against the Aussies, Asad was again Pakistan's best on Thursday.

The 33-year-old watched wickets fall around him amidst a collapse of 4-3, and kept the tourists afloat in the final session with his 134-ball knock.

He also combined with lower-order batsman Yasir Shah for an 84-run stand, before the Aussies eventually ran through the tail to have Pakistan all out for 240.

"There was a partnership needed, with wickets falling very quickly," Asad said.

"I was trying to build that partnership and I knew a good partnership could help the team.

"We didn't reach the total we wanted but still we got a respectable total. Still we showed some very good fight."

Asad averages 45 against Australia, and looks set to be Pakistan's new No.4 after spending most his career at No.6.

He forms part of a new-look Pakistan team, with just four players left from their last Test match against South Africa in January playing at the Gabba.

In that time they also have a new captain in Azhar Ali under new coach Misbah-ul-Huq.

Those who remain from January started well on Thursday.

Azhar (39) and Shan Masood (27) got through the first session unscathed, putting on 67 for the opening stand - the highest of any touring team in the first innings at the Gabba.

However Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood later revealed their slow run-rate of just above two-an-over alleviated any pressure on the hosts.

An approach Asad said his top order had little option but to take, even if ideally they had scored quicker.

"In the morning session the ball was doing a bit and you have to give credit to the Australian bowlers," Asad said.

"They did not give any freebies or allow us to make runs quickly.

"I think they were thinking off seeing the good bowlers."

Australian Associated Press