Posted by On Day 2 of the MCG Test, Pakistan claimed seven Australian wickets swiftly, adding 131 runs to reach 318 from an overnight total of 187/3. Despite Australia’s brisk scoring, Pakistan’s quick showcased exceptional fielding prowess, ensuring flawless catches and concluding the home side’s innings.
Day 1’s cautious approach was discarded from the outset. Marnus Labuschagne, the symbol of resistance, boldly drove through extra cover in the opening over. Despite Shaheen Afridi’s initial wayward line, Australia continued to accumulate runs. Travis Head seized opportunities created by Hasan Ali to hit two fours and push the team beyond 200. However, Afridi’s well-executed delivery that swung away resulted in Head’s dismissal, caught by Agha Salman at second slip.
Mitchell Marsh entered, surviving two DRS decisions and contributing to a brisk cameo. He boldly faced Agha Salman’s spin, charging down the pitch for a straight six and a boundary through covers. Aamer Jamal’s precise delivery disrupted the rhythm, causing Labuschagne to edge the ball to first slip, where Abdullah Shafique made a flawless catch.
Despite Australia losing wickets, Marsh persisted, even against the swinging new ball. Despite Pakistan’s errors in line and discipline, conceding 52 runs in extras, Marsh continued until his dismissal by Mir Hamza for a 60-ball 41. The Australian innings concluded at 318, with Pakistan’s Mir Hamza securing the seventh catch of the session.
In summary, Australia scored 318 (Labuschagne 63, Marsh 41), with Aamer Jamal (3-64), Mir Hamza (2-51), Hasan Ali (2-61), and Shaheen Afridi (2-85) leading Pakistan’s bowling efforts.
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