Australia's century drought entered its 125th and most eventful day, but the ongoing failure to convert did not cost the hosts the early initiative after reaching stumps at 305 for three in 90 overs.
Katich and Watson added to their mounting collection of unusual dismissals in the 90s, although both might have expected earlier return trips to the pavilion had Pakistan held onto their chances in the field.
The highlight of the first day's play was unquestionably the run-out of Watson (93), which saw both batsmen stranded at the strikers' end while Imran Farhat merrily removed the bails at the other.
Katich looked set to compensate for his running gaffe only for losing composure again in the 90s, cutting uppishly at a Mohammad Asif delivery on 98 that flew directly to Salman Butt at point.
Ricky Ponting showed few ill effects from the elbow injury that threatened his participation in the match, racing to a half-century from just 55 balls, but his innings also fell short of triple-figures, dismissed for 57.
Score Board
AUSTRALIA (I Innings):
Watson (run out) 93
Katich c Butt b Asif 98
Ponting c Misbah b Asif 57
Hussey (batting) 38
Hauritz (batting) 5
Extras (B-1, LB-8, NB-5) 14
Total (for 3 wickets, 90 overs) 305
Fall of wickets: 1-182, 2-233, 3-291.
Bowling: Asif 21-4-69-2, Aamer 19-6-52-0, Rauf 15-2-61-0, Ajmal 32-3-101-0, Farhat 3-0-13-0.
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