Pak vs Aus: Pat Cummins Dominates to Propel Australia into Commanding Position

Pakistan Struggles on Day Two of Melbourne Test; Babar Azam’s Continued Struggles

MELBOURNE: Despite dismissing Australia for 318, Pakistan faced challenges on day two of the second Test and ended the day at 194 for six after the impactful performance by home skipper Pat Cummins.

Initially appearing strong at 124-1 an hour after tea, Pakistan now resumes on day three, trailing by 124 runs, diminishing hopes for their first Test win in Australia since 1995 and leveling the series at 1-1.

Pat Cummins (3-37) turned the tide in two overs, taking a brilliant catch to dismiss Abdullah Shafique for 62 and delivering a superb delivery to dismiss Babar Azam for one, exciting the Melbourne Cricket Ground crowd.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon played a crucial role, breaking the opening partnership and later removing Shan Masood for 54. Josh Hazlewood contributed by bowling Saud Shakeel for nine, and Cummins returned to have Agha Salman caught behind for five.

Despite the challenging day, Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 29 at the close of play.

Rain-free conditions favored the bowlers, and Pakistan managed to wrap up Australia’s first innings before lunch, with Aamer Jamal leading the way with 3-64. The tourists, having lost 15 successive tests in Australia since 1995, took the last seven wickets at the cost of 131 runs.

While Marnus Labuschagne top-scored with 63, Pakistan’s 52 extras highlighted a sloppiness that Australia was keen to exploit.

Despite the initial challenges, Pakistan’s disciplined batting, particularly by Shafique and Masood, showcased resilience against Australia’s world-class pace attack.

Australia won the first test by 360 runs in Perth. The third and final test is scheduled in Sydney in the new year.