Pakistan vs Australia 3rd Test Highlights 2024

In a dramatic showdown at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the third and final Test between Pakistan and Australia unfolded with intense action right from the start. The match was significant not only for being the 112th Test at SCG but also for marking the final Test appearance of Australian opening batsman David Warner.

Australia's formidable new-ball bowlers, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, struck early, sending back the Pakistan openers for ducks. The situation further escalated when captain Pat Cummins dismissed key batsmen, Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, leaving Pakistan in a precarious position.

Early Blow for Pakistan

The match started with Australia's pace attack swiftly dismantling Pakistan's top order. Starc and Hazlewood, leveraging the new ball's movement, removed openers without allowing them to settle. Their dismissal for ducks was a significant setback for Pakistan, who had hoped for a solid start after opting to bat first. This early success for Australia showcased their strategic bowling approach and depth in pace attack, setting the stage for a challenging day for Pakistan.

Cummins' Commanding Spell

In an impressive display of bowling, Australian captain Pat Cummins further tightened the screws on Pakistan. He skillfully dismissed the experienced Babar Azam and the promising Saud Shakeel, demonstrating his tactical acumen and bowling prowess.

Cummins' spell was a masterclass in seam bowling, combining pace, movement, and precision to rattle the Pakistani batting lineup. His efforts significantly contributed to Australia gaining the upper hand in the early phases of the match.

Rizwan and Masood's Resistance

Faced with a daunting task, Mohammad Rizwan and Shan Masood rose to the challenge, showing remarkable resilience under pressure. The duo focused on rebuilding the innings, adopting a cautious approach against the aggressive Australian bowling.

Their partnership became a crucial element in stabilizing Pakistan's innings, as they navigated through the challenging conditions and the probing Australian attack. Their efforts not only revived Pakistan's hopes but also set the stage for a competitive total.