Australia asserted dominance on the third day of the opening Test against Pakistan, finishing with a lead of 300 runs and two wickets down in their second innings.
Despite a valiant effort from Pakistan, Nathan Lyon narrowly missed his chance for a historic 500th Test wicket, leaving the visitors with a daunting task ahead if they aim to secure victory.
Facing relentless bowling from the Australian side, Pakistan suffered early setbacks with the dismissals of David Warner (0) and Marnus Labuschagne (2) in their second innings. However, the hosts concluded day three at 84-2, establishing a substantial lead of 300 runs, setting the stage for a challenging run chase for Pakistan.
The only instance of Pakistan achieving victory in Australia while batting fourth dates back to 1976-77 at the SCG, where they successfully chased a modest target of 32 for the loss of two wickets. To overturn the current situation, Pakistan will likely need a substantial score, possibly exceeding the 450 they posted at the Gabba four years ago.
Nathan Lyon, with figures of 3-66 from 24 overs, led the Australian bowling attack, but it was the formidable pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood that posed significant challenges on a lively pitch. Despite Lyon’s close encounter with his 500th wicket, part-time spinner Travis Head claimed the final scalp, adding pressure on Lyon as he enters the second innings.
Australia’s unbeaten pair, Usman Khawaja (34no) and Steve Smith (43no), faced a relentless bouncer barrage from Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi in the final hour, showcasing the resilience of the Australian batting lineup.
The Perth pitch, showing signs of cracking and divots since day one, further enhances Lyon’s prospects as he aims for his milestone. Labuschagne suffered a stinging blow to his hand, highlighting the challenges posed by the unpredictable pitch conditions.
While Pakistan’s batsmen struggled, opener Imam-ul-Haq reached a half-century, and former skipper Babar Azam provided a glimpse of his class before falling victim to Mitchell Marsh. With the middle order collapsing and the second new ball due, Pakistan faced an uphill battle against Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
The Test series schedule includes matches at Perth Stadium, MCG, and SCG, with Australia’s squad led by captain Pat Cummins and Pakistan’s squad featuring notable players such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi. As the series progresses, both teams will strive to make their mark in this highly anticipated cricketing contest.
