Australia asserted their dominance in the first Test against Pakistan by defeating visitors by 360 runs in Perth. After amassing a substantial lead of 216 runs in 1st innings. And with the pitch showing signs of deterioration, Australia’s solid batting performance pushed Pakistan into a defensive position. Khawaja and Marsh notched up fifties, and after Khawaja’s dismissal at 90, Australia declared, leaving Pakistan with a daunting target of 450 runs.
The Australian bowlers capitalized on the challenging conditions, relentlessly pressuring the Pakistani batters. The day also witnessed a historic achievement as Lyon claimed his 500th Test wicket, marking a remarkable milestone in his career. The home side’s exceptional all-round display, including Warner’s century and a strong bowling performance, puts them in a commanding position in the Test match.
The opening partnership of Warner and Khawaja, yielding a substantial 126-run stand, set the tone for Australia’s dominance after winning the toss. Despite initial resistance from Pakistan’s openers Imam and Shafique, Australia consistently chipped away at the wickets once the partnership was broken. All bowlers contributed to the wickets column, showcasing Australia’s depth and versatility in the bowling department.
2nd session: Australia dominated middle session, putting them within reach of a 1-0 series lead, with only six wickets standing between them and victory. The batting duo of Khawaja and Marsh set a strong foundation, and in the subsequent hour, the bowlers wreaked havoc.
Khawaja fell just short of a century, and Australia declared, leaving Pakistan with a daunting target of 450 runs. Starc struck early, dismissing Shafique, followed by Hazlewood’s removal of Masood. Starc then claimed Imam’s wicket, and Cummins sealed the deal by removing Babar Azam.
1st session: Australia continues to assert their dominance in the ongoing Test match, strengthening their grip on the proceedings. However, Pakistan managed to have the upper hand in the first hour of the morning session. They effectively controlled the scoring rate and claimed a couple of crucial wickets.
Shahzad showcased his skills by dismissing Smith with a well-crafted delivery, while Head, despite displaying intent, fell unexpectedly to Jamal. Khawaja also found himself trapped in front by Jamal, but a successful review overturned the decision in his favor. Khawaja and Marsh then formed a resilient partnership, playing aggressive shots to maintain a brisk scoring rate.
With Australia’s lead now exceeding 400 runs, they are firmly in control of the situation. The dynamic duo of Marsh and Khawaja is expected to come out with aggression, possibly aiming for a declaration before Tea.
AUS vs PAK: What happened on Day 3?
Australia maintained their stronghold, closing Day 3 with an imposing 300-run lead. The batting prowess of Steven Smith (43) and Usman Khawaja (34) showcased Australia’s dominance as they look to pile more runs on Day 4.
Pakistan, trailing by 216 runs, faced a formidable Australian attack that bowled them out for 271 just before tea on Day 3. Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, with figures of 3-66, approached the historic 500-wicket milestone, positioning himself alongside a select group of elite players.
Starting the day at 132-2, Pakistan struggled against Australia’s top-class bowling lineup. Nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad, making his debut, fell victim to Pat Cummins in the first over of the day. Babar Azam, the dangerman for Pakistan, showed resilience but was eventually dismissed for 21 by Mitchell Marsh, denting Pakistan’s hopes.
Opener Imam-ul-Haq reached a hard-fought 50, his first in Australia, but fell for 62 when Lyon returned to the attack, inducing a lapse of concentration. The collapse continued, with Mitchell Starc dismissing Sarfaraz Ahmed (3), and Josh Hazlewood’s quality bouncer accounting for Saud Shakeel (28).
Australia’s bowlers maintained pressure, with Cummins and Lyon chipping in with crucial wickets. Lyon’s 499th scalp came with another stumping by Alex Carey, dismissing Aamer Jamal, while Travis Head’s part-time spin accounted for Shaheen Shah Afridi.
As Australia took the new ball and tightened their grip on the game, Pakistan faced an uphill battle. The series of wickets before and after lunch on Day 3 highlighted the challenge of negotiating Australia’s relentless bowling attack on a pitch showing signs of bounce and speed.
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