AUS vs PAK: 3rd Test Review – Australia complete a clean sweep over Pakistan

In a gripping showdown at the SCG on Day 3 of the third Test between Australia and Pakistan, the game swung back and forth, showcasing the unpredictable nature of Test cricket. Aamer Jamal emerged as the protagonist for Pakistan, wreaking havoc in Australia’s lower order after tea, propelling Pakistan to snatch a slender 14-run lead in a seesaw battle.

Australia, seemingly on course to secure a pivotal lead, found themselves in a promising position thanks to the impressive form of Mitchell Marsh, who notched up his fourth half-century in three matches. Teaming up with Alex Carey, the duo stitched together an encouraging 84-run partnership until the game took a dramatic turn just before tea. Carey’s dismissal, bowled by spinner Sajid Khan for 38, catalyzed a stunning collapse. The Aussie side crumbled, losing five wickets for a mere 10 runs.

Aamer Jamal showcased his prowess with the ball, claiming his second five-wicket haul of the series. His fiery spell saw the downfall of crucial Australian batters, including the likes of Marsh and Pat Cummins. With a spellbinding performance, Jamal concluded with figures of 6 for 69 from 21.4 overs, dismantling Australia for 299 and handing Pakistan a 14-run lead to kickstart their innings in the ongoing final Test of the series.

Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbles on Day 3

However, Pakistan’s start in their second innings was far from stable, losing early wickets of Shafique and Masood for ducks. Yet, Saim Ayub and Babar Azam steadied the ship, forging a much-needed fifty partnership. The momentum shifted as Nathan Lyon, gradually finding his rhythm, broke the vital partnership by dismissing Ayub, followed by Travis Head’s crucial removal of Babar.

Australia, sensing an opportunity, made a strategic bowling change with Josh Hazlewood entering the fray. The tall paceman delivered an astonishing over, claiming three quick wickets in a sensational display – a testament to the unpredictability of the sport. Pakistan found themselves reeling at 68/7, placing the pressure squarely on Aamer Jamal and Rizwan to navigate their team out of the turmoil. The match’s pendulum swung back in favour of Australia, with the pitch revealing its complexities, exhibiting variable bounce and significant turn.