aamer jamal leads resistance in australia vs pakistan new year’s test against pat cummins’ magic
Published on: January 9, 2024.
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Australia dominated the opening day of the third and final Test against Pakistan at the SCG, thanks to a formidable bowling performance. Pat Cummins continued his outstanding form from the previous match, taking 5-61 to leave the visitors struggling at 5-96. However, a remarkable fightback led by Aamer Jamal saw Pakistan recover and post a total of 313.
Cummins once again proved unplayable, striking at regular intervals to put Australia in a commanding position. Despite his heroics, the hosts lost their way towards the end of the day, allowing Pakistan to regain momentum.
Pakistan got off to a disastrous start when Abdullah Shafique was dismissed by Mitch Starc with just the second delivery of the match. Their top order crumbled, leaving them in a precarious position. However, Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman provided much-needed resistance, preventing a complete collapse. Rizwan was particularly impressive, smashing his way to 88 off 103 balls.
Unfortunately for Rizwan, his bid for a century was cut short when Cummins took his wicket. Salman also fell soon after, and Hasan Ali was dismissed without scoring. Cummins achieved his 12th five-wicket haul, his third in a row, and claimed his first five-wicket haul at the SCG.
However, Jamal and Mir Hamza frustrated Australia with their enterprising partnership. Jamal, who scored his maiden Test half-century, and Hamza ensured that Pakistan ended the day on a positive note.
The day ended on an exciting note as David Warner came out to bat and received a warm reception from the Sydney crowd. He hit a boundary off the first ball but had a narrow escape on the penultimate delivery.
Overall, it was a thrilling day of Test cricket, with Australia initially in control before Pakistan fought back admirably. The second day promises to be an intriguing battle between bat and ball.
Source: [Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com)
