AUS vs PAK 3rd Test, Day 2: Rain forces stumps as SCG Test hangs in balance

Australia vs Pakistan 3rd Test LIVE, Day 2: Inclement weather played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Test match between Australia and Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The day’s play was cut short after only 46 overs were bowled, leaving the match intriguingly poised. Despite the limited action, several key moments unfolded.

Both teams faced early challenges as Hamza and Hasan Ali struggled with their line and length. However, David Warner and Usman Khawaja navigated the early difficulties with cautious and circumspect play. In a significant twist, Warner, in his farewell Test, survived a scare when dropped on 20 by Saim Ayub in a straightforward slip chance. Fortune favored the retiring opener until Salman delivered a peach of a delivery, leading to Warner’s dismissal.

Khawaja displayed grit and determination but couldn’t capitalize on his start, falling victim to Jamal. The latter bowled with rhythm, showcasing sharp bursts in his spells. Marnus Labuschagne, on the other hand, exhibited composure and looked settled at the crease. In the later part of the afternoon session, play was halted due to bad light, followed by persistent rain that refused to relent.

As a result of the weather interruptions, Australia still trails by 197 runs, with a considerable challenge ahead. The forecast for the next three days appears promising, raising hopes for a decisive outcome in the game. Despite the setbacks, there is ample firepower left in both teams, setting the stage for an intriguing continuation of the Test match.

With an early start scheduled at 10:00 Local Time on the horizon, cricket enthusiasts anticipate a compelling battle to unfold as Australia strives to make a comeback against Pakistan in the remaining days of the Test match.

Recap of Australia vs Pakistan Day 1

The opening day of the Test witnessed an enthralling battle between bat and ball. Australia asserted dominance in the morning session, claiming four wickets. However, Rizwan and Salman’s resilient partnership injected hope into the Pakistani camp, amassing an impressive 94 runs. Rizwan’s dismissal, unfortunately, curtailed his quest for a well-deserved century.

Pat Cummins, with his relentless bowling, posed a significant threat to the tailenders, securing another five-wicket haul. Just as it seemed the innings was about to conclude, the last-wicket pair of Jamal and Hamza showcased incredible resistance. Jamal’s exceptional innings of 82 off 97 balls, supported by Hamza, propelled Pakistan beyond the 300-run mark, adding an invaluable 86 runs for the final wicket.

As the day concluded, Warner and Khawaja faced a crucial over, with Warner marking his farewell Test with a boundary, much to the delight of the SCG crowd. Despite a close call, with Warner almost chopping one onto his stumps, luck favored the Australian opener. The stage is set for an intriguing Day 2, leaving cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipating whether Warner will script a farewell masterpiece.

The balance of the Test hangs delicately, offering the prospect of a Warner special, a fitting culmination to the legendary southpaw’s Test career. As the players take the field again, the SCG awaits another day of riveting cricket, with the potential for surprises, milestones, and an unforgettable farewell for David Warner.