Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson paid rich tributes to the batting duo of Misbah-ul Haq and Mohammad Sami [Images] after they rescued the team on Day One of the opening Test against India in Delhi on Thursday.

"They both batted according to instructions. They were told to take the singles and Sami played his role very well," he said.

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Misbah, unbeaten on a splendid 71 at close, led Pakistan's revival after they were precariously placed at 142 for eight. His positive and solid approach also seemed to rub off on Sami, who was unbeaten on 20, as the two batsmen added 68 runs in an unfinished partnership for the ninth wicket.

At close on Day 1, Pakistan reached a healthy 210 for 8, and Lawson believes that the fightback has given them a good chance in the match.

"We have now a good score to work on. A total of nearly 250 on this wicket will be a good total. It could be tough to score in the coming days," added Lawson.

The Pakistan coach also made it clear that the top order batsmen need to bat with more responsibility, as a few of them threw their wickets away after getting good starts.

"It was a disappointing start. I think some of the players have to get over the one-day hang over. Fortunately for us, when the ball got older it became easier to bat," Lawson said.

"When you win the toss you must get a good total. Unfortunately, we failed to capitalise on it. We decided to bat because we did not want to bat last on this wicket," he said.

The Australian believes Pakistan have the required strength in bowling to restrict the Indian batting on the slow pitch.

"We have a good bowling attack and if we can maintain a good line and length like the Indians did in the morning session we can put the pressure on the Indians."