David Warner capped off his Test career with a storybook ending, guiding Australia to a comfortable eight-wicket victory over Pakistan on day four of the SCG Test. With wins in Perth and Melbourne, Australia completed a comprehensive series sweep over Pakistan on home turf.
The day commenced with a resilient stand from Mohammad Rizwan and Aamir Jamal in the first hour. The duo carefully maneuvered the ball, helping Pakistan surpass the 100-run mark.
However, Nathan Lyon ended Rizwan’s resistance at 28 (57b, 1×4), as the wicketkeeper-batsman inside-edged a delivery to David Warner at first slip. Rizwan concluded the series as Pakistan’s leading run-scorer with an impressive tally of 193 runs in four innings.
Aamir Jamal, eager to accelerate the scoring, fell victim to Pat Cummins, caught by Travis Head at deep square leg for 18 (47b, 2x4s). Lyon claimed the final wicket, dismissing Hasan Ali, as Pakistan was bowled out for 115.
Australia’s pursuit of the modest 130-run target faced an early hiccup with the dismissal of Usman Khawaja for a duck in the first over, adjudged LBW to Sajid Khan. However, Warner took center stage, unleashing an array of attacking strokes, including switch-hits and reverse sweeps, to register his 37th and final Test half-century.
Lunch arrived with Australia needing just 39 more runs for victory, and Marnus Labuschagne growing in confidence. Sajid Khan removed Warner (57, 75b, 7x4s) with a successful LBW review, but Labuschagne, unbeaten on 62 off 73 balls with nine fours, ensured Australia’s triumphant chase.
Aamir Jamal rightfully earned the Player of the Match accolade for his stellar performance, contributing 82 runs in the first innings and impressing with a brilliant six-wicket haul.
Meanwhile, Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, was named Player of the Series for his outstanding contribution, leading the charts with 19 wickets.
The post-match presentation ceremony became a poignant affair, with heartfelt tributes pouring in for David Warner. In a touching gesture, Pakistan captain Shan Masood presented a signed Babar Azam jersey as a parting gift to the retiring opener, adding a sentimental touch to Warner’s farewell.
Warner’s fairytale ending and Australia’s series sweep not only underscore the team’s dominance but also mark a fitting conclusion to an impressive Test campaign.
