A century from Pakistan wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed has frustrated New Zealand’s efforts to take a grip on the second cricket Test in Dubai.

A record unbeaten 10th wicket partnership for Pakistan against New Zealand of 80 between Ahmed (111 not out) and Rahat Ali (16 not out) saw the hosts go to lunch on the fourth day at 392-9, just 11 runs shy of New Zealand’s first innings of 403.

The pair broke the 49-year-old record belonging to Mohammad Farooq and Salahuddin of 65 runs, set at Rawalpindi in 1965.

Pakistan started the fourth day on 281-6, with Ahmed on 28, 122 behind New Zealand’s first innings and the Kiwis hoping for a significant lead.

They picked up three wickets quickly before Ali came in with the score at 312-9.

Despite skying a few chances Ali helped Ahmed wrest the initiative for his country and for Ahmed to score his third century in 12 Tests.

He struck 16 fours and looked untroubled despite a wearing wicket starting to take more spin.

Tim Southee picked up two wickets and Trent Boult one wicket in the extended morning session.

Pakistan won the first Test by 248 runs in Abu Dhabi. The third and final Test begins in Sharjah on November 26.