Marnus Labuschagne played a crucial role in Australia’s first-innings total of 318 in the 2nd Test at MCG, top-scoring with 63 off 155 balls. Interestingly, the extras conceded by the Pakistan bowlers emerged as the second-highest contributor to Australia’s run tally. Pakistan’s generosity in gifting 52 extra runs marked a record at the MCG for the most extras conceded by a team in a single Test innings.
Generous Pakistan give away 52 runs in AUS vs PAK first innings:
Breaking down the extras, Pakistan’s bowlers were responsible for 15 wides, 20 byes, and 15 leg-byes. This extraordinary count surpassed any previous instances of extra runs given away in a single innings at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
On the second day of the Boxing Day Test, Australia’s innings concluded at 318 runs, with Aamer Jamal emerging as the standout bowler for Pakistan, securing 3 wickets. The Pakistani bowlers, in contrast to their performance in Perth, displayed improvement with Shaheen Afridi, Mir Hamza, and Hasan Ali each claiming 2 wickets, while spinner Salman Agha chipped in with a solitary wicket.
Despite the commendable bowling efforts, Pakistan found themselves in a mixed bag scenario. While they were criticized in Perth for a lackluster fielding display, the Melbourne Test saw both moments of brilliance and a significant number of extra runs conceded.
In a bid to stay alive in the series, Pakistan faces a crucial task of winning this Test match. After suffering a substantial defeat in the first Test in Perth, where Australia triumphed by 360 runs led by Pat Cummins, Pakistan aimed for a better performance in Melbourne. The focus now shifts to their batting lineup, as they look to navigate the challenging conditions presented by the pace and swing on the Melbourne track in the remaining days of the match.
