In a thrilling display of cricket, Australia emerged victorious in the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, clinching a 79-run win on the fourth day of the second cricket Test. The hero of the day was none other than Pat Cummins, whose outstanding performance marked his second 10-wicket total in test matches.
Cummins played a pivotal role in dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup, ensuring they were bowled out for 237. This win extends Pakistan’s losing streak in Australian Tests to a challenging 16 matches.
The late-day drama unfolded as Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha appeared to threaten Australia’s lead with a promising 67-run partnership. However, Cummins intervened just 15 minutes before the scheduled close of play in a bizarre and dramatic manner. A Cummins delivery to Rizwan prompted a review from Australia, with the third umpire ruling that the ball had flicked Rizwan’s wrist band connected to his gloves. This decision ended the threatening partnership and left Pakistan at 219-5, with Rizwan expressing frustration over the verdict.
Cummins’ impact was evident throughout the match, particularly when he claimed the crucial wicket of opposing captain Shan Masood (60) just before tea. His fourth wicket of the second innings came minutes later, dismissing Aamir Jamal (0). Cummins’ remarkable performance earned him the player of the match award and secured his position as the 10th Australian to surpass 250 Test wickets.
Australia, having set a target of 262 in its second innings, faced some challenges during the morning session, losing four wickets for 75 runs. However, wicketkeeper Alex Carey’s resilient performance, contributing 53 runs, helped push Australia’s lead beyond the crucial 300-mark.
Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, with figures of 4-76, showcased a return to form, while Mir Hamza added 4-32, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s bowling effort.
With the victory, Australia now leads the three-match series 2-0, having won the first Test in Perth by 360 runs. The stage is now set for the third Test, scheduled to commence on January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where Pakistan last secured a Test victory in Australia back in 1995.
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the final match of the series, as Australia looks to maintain its dominance, and Pakistan seeks a comeback to salvage pride.