In ongoing Pakistan vs Australia Test match, Nathan Lyon, the Aussie spin maestro, is on the verge of joining the prestigious 500-wicket club, inching within three wickets of the milestone on the second day in Perth.
By the day’s end, Pakistan stood at 132-2, trailing by 355 runs. Imam-ul-Haq, resilient at 38 not out, partnered with Khurram Shahzad, the nightwatchman, who stood at seven, as skipper Shan Masood fell late in the day.
Aamer Jamal’s outstanding 6-111 on debut was pivotal in dismissing Australia for 487, where Mitchell Marsh’s 90 complemented David Warner’s strong 164 from the first day.
Pakistan’s reply saw Abdullah Shafique departing after battling to 42, becoming Lyon’s 497th Test victim, closing in on the illustrious 500-wicket mark.
Facing a spirited Australian bowling attack, Haq exhibited resilience, enduring an intense spell from Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins on a lively pitch. His first boundary arrived after 85 deliveries, guiding a fine shot off his hip.
While Haq stood firm, skipper Shan Masood contributed 30 before falling to Starc, caught behind by Alex Carey after a review. Despite a tough blow earlier, Shan continued after receiving treatment.
Australia, resuming at 346-5, succumbed early in the second session, with Marsh falling to Shahzad for 90, kickstarting a tail-end collapse where Jamal played a key role.
Marsh, in commanding form, notched a brisk 50 and seemed set for a century before Shahzad dismantled his stumps post-lunch. Jamal’s swift strikes also removed Cummins and Lyon, followed by Carey, ending a dangerous partnership with Marsh.
Pakistan’s impressive bowling, notably Jamal’s pace, rattled Australia, claiming wickets including Starc, who edged one to lose his stumps.