Australia staged a remarkable recovery in the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan after a daunting top-order collapse left them reeling at 16-4 in their second innings.
Mitchell Marsh and Steven Smith’s resilience, however, turned the tide, shaping a 153-run partnership from a critical position. Marsh’s valiant 96 and Smith’s battling 50 anchored Australia to a commanding lead of 241 runs by stumps on day three.
Marsh, in stellar form since his recall, showcased resilience after a dropped catch by Abdullah Shafique early in his innings. His impressive 96 propelled Australia. Meanwhile, Smith, cautious yet effective, aided Marsh in steering the innings.
Pakistan, boosted by Shaheen Afridi and Mir Hamza’s inspiring spells, regained momentum but suffered setbacks due to missed opportunities in the field. Marsh’s dropped catch and Masood’s misfield allowed Australia to consolidate their position despite Afridi and Hamza’s early strikes.
Australia’s early struggles, losing quick wickets to Afridi and Hamza, triggered a rare home soil batting collapse. The pivotal dismissals of Khawaja, Labuschagne, Warner’s emotional farewell, and Head’s swift exit left Australia in disarray before Marsh and Smith’s crucial partnership revived their innings.
Earlier, Pakistan’s lower order displayed resilience but surrendered to Pat Cummins’ dominance, conceding a 54-run lead in the first innings. Despite contributions from Shafique, Masood, and Rizwan, Cummins’ five-for and Nathan Lyon’s impact restricted Pakistan to 264.
With Australia firmly in control, Pakistan faces an uphill battle to avoid a 16th consecutive defeat on Australian soil, despite a spirited fightback during the Test.
ReadMore: Spanish Icon Rafael Nadal Gears Up for His Final Season
Criifosports/28December23/OF/MA
