Marsh, Smith lead Australia’s fightback with gritty partnership, securing commanding lead against Pakistan

Mitchell Marsh’s resilient 96, accompanied by a steadfast Steve Smith, spearheaded Australia’s recovery, establishing a formidable 241-run lead over Pakistan in the second Test. Australia found themselves in dire straits at 16-4 after dismissing Pakistan for 264 in response to their initial 318 at Melbourne.

Facing adversity, Marsh and Smith orchestrated a pivotal 153-run partnership, steering Australia to 187-6 by stumps on day three. Smith contributed 50 runs before departing in the final over, while Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 16. Despite a valiant effort, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mir Hamza each claimed three wickets.

The turning point could have arrived earlier when Abdullah Shafique missed a straightforward catch in the slips with Marsh at 20. However, Marsh’s quest for a century was curtailed by a stunning one-handed catch from Agha Salman, leaving him four runs shy of the milestone.

Australia’s formidable position followed a potent bowling performance by Pat Cummins (5-48) and Nathan Lyon (4-73) to dismiss Pakistan. The morning session posed challenges as Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne fell early to Afridi’s bowling.

The day marked the end of an era for David Warner, who bid farewell to the Melbourne Cricket Ground with a standing ovation after falling for six. Travis Head’s dismissal compounded Australia’s woes at 16-4, but Marsh and Smith’s resilience defused Pakistan’s attack.

In Pakistan’s innings, Cummins continued his dominance with a five-wicket haul, while Lyon contributed crucial breakthroughs. Mohammad Rizwan’s confident start was halted by Cummins, breaking a partnership with Aamer Jamal. Jamal, along with Afridi, showcased resilience, but Cummins and Lyon’s prowess ensured a comprehensive dismissal, leaving Australia in control heading into day four.