In the second Test of the much-anticipated Pakistan tour of Australia 2023-24, the cricketing action unfolded at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 26. Opting to bowl, Pakistan aimed to assert their dominance early on, but the host responded with resilience and authority, concluding the first day’s play in a commanding position.
Australia at 187-3 after 66 overs at stumps.
Australia‘s innings at stumps stood at 187-3 after 66 overs, with key contributions from their top-order batsmen. Opening batsman David Warner set the stage with a solid 38 runs off 83 balls, displaying his trademark strokeplay. However, his innings was cut short by a delivery from Agha Salman, which found the hands of Babar Azam.
Usman Khawaja continued the charge, crafting a patient 42 off 101 balls before falling victim to Hasan Ali. The experienced batsman’s innings provided stability to the Australian innings, forming a crucial partnership with Warner. Marnus Labuschagne, the linchpin of host’s batting line-up, remained unbeaten at stumps with a gritty 44 off 120 balls, showcasing his resilience against the Pakistani attack.
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Former captain Steven Smith contributed a valuable 26 runs off 75 deliveries before being caught behind by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan off Aamer Jamal’s bowling. As the day concluded, Travis Head was at the crease with an unbeaten 9 runs off 19 balls, looking to build on Australia’s foundation on the second day.
Pakistan’s Disciplined and skilled bowling attack.
The Pakistani bowling attack, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, Mir Hamza, Hasan Ali, Aamer Jamal, and Agha Salman, displayed discipline and skill. While Hasan Ali and Aamer Jamal claimed a wicket each, the Australian batsmen navigated through the challenging conditions.
Shaheen Afridi bowled an economical spell, delivering 20 overs with an economy of 3.20, showcasing his ability to maintain pressure on the opposition. Mir Hamza and Hasan Ali were equally effective, creating opportunities and keeping the scoring rate in check.
Fall of wickets:-
Australia’s innings progressed steadily, with partnerships forming at crucial junctures. The fall of wickets was recorded at 90-1 (David Warner), 108-2 (Usman Khawaja), and 154-3 (Steven Smith).
As the day unfolds, the spotlight remains on the intriguing battle between bat and ball. Australia, aiming to build a formidable first-innings total, will resume their innings on Day 2, while Pakistan seeks early breakthroughs to mount a comeback. The Melbourne Test promises more thrilling moments, and cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama in this pivotal encounter.