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AUS vs PAK 2nd Test: Afridi and Hamza shine with three wickets each as Australia end Day 3 on 187-6

Facing a challenging 15-minute morning session, Australia lost Khawaja for a duck and Labuschagne for five.

By Omar | Dec 28, 2023 | 2 Min Read

On the third day of the 2nd Test, Mitchell Marsh displayed resilience with a notable 96, complemented by the determination of Steve Smith, orchestrating a crucial counter-attack that propelled Australia to a 241-run lead against Pakistan. Despite adversity at 16-4 after dismissing Pakistan for 264 in response to their first-innings 318, Marsh and Smith forged a vital 153-run partnership, offering stability. The day concluded with Australia at 187-6, witnessing Smith’s dismissal for 50 in the final over, while Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 16. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mir Hamza showcased their prowess with three wickets each. The dropped catch by Abdullah Shafique at slips when Marsh was on 20 proved pivotal, and Marsh fell just short of a century, caught superbly by Agha Salman.

In the earlier session, Cummins (5-48) and Lyon (4-73) dismantled Pakistan. Facing a challenging 15-minute morning session, Australia lost Khawaja for a duck and Labuschagne for five. Warner’s dismissal marked a poignant moment as he bid farewell to the MCG. Head’s departure left Australia reeling at 16-4. However, Marsh and Smith’s partnership eased the pressure, with Marsh aggressively countering Aamer Jamal. Smith played a supportive role, reaching a gritty half-century, guiding Australia to a commanding position.

Pakistan, commencing the day at 194-6, encountered Cummins’ prowess once again. Rizwan’s confident start concluded as Cummins induced a drive straight to Warner. Afridi, showcasing aggressive batting, fell to Lyon. Jamal played assertively, scoring 33 not out, but Cummins dismissed Hasan Ali, and Lyon had Hamza stumped, concluding Pakistan’s innings.

At the close of day three, Australia found themselves at 187-6, witnessing the dismissal of Smith for 50 in the final over, with Alex Carey remaining unbeaten on 16. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mir Hamza both made significant contributions, each claiming three wickets. The missed catch by Abdullah Shafique added to the crucial moments of the day.