Australia vs Pakistan: Aussies asserted dominance on day two of the second Test against Pakistan in Melbourne. Pakistan, trailing by 124 runs in the first innings, struggled as they ended the day at 194-6.
Mohammad Rizwan and Aamer Jamal were at the crease, but quick wickets caused setbacks after a promising start.
Pakistan’s innings had a strong beginning, reaching 124-1, with Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood hitting fifties. However, their inability to capitalize saw them lose momentum. Notably, Babar Azam fell early, managing just one run before Pat Cummins dismissed him, securing three crucial wickets.
In the post-lunch session, Pakistan reached 68-1 by tea. Despite Abdullah Shafique’s unbeaten 39, the dismissal of Imam-ul-Haq by Nathan Lyon for 10 slowed their progress. Captain Shan Masood stood firm at 15, seeking to steer Pakistan back into contention.
Australia faced a minor setback, posting 318 in their first innings, losing seven wickets for 131 runs on the second morning. Marnus Labuschagne’s solid 63 was cut short by Aamer Jamal’s impressive spell (3-64). However, Pakistan’s discontent stemmed from conceding 52 extras, significantly contributing to Australia’s total.
Reflecting on the series, Pakistan, after a defeat in the first Test, aimed to rebound. The hosts, at 187-3 by the end of a rain-interrupted day one, were eager to clinch the series. Their unchanged lineup signified their confidence and determination.
In this critical match, Pakistan made strategic changes, opting for Mohammad Rizwan over Sarfaraz Ahmed and including Mir Hamza and Hasan Ali in the bowling attack. This adjustment marked an all-pace attack, omitting a specialist spinner.
Pakistan’s struggle in Australia continued, having lost 15 consecutive Tests since their last victory in 1995. The team faced an uphill battle to reverse this trend against a formidable Australian side.
