Australia clinched an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series by defeating Pakistan by 79 runs in a gripping Boxing Day Test at the MCG. The match, played on a bowler-friendly surface, showcased a nail-biting contest with neither team dominating until a tense final day settled the score.

The late drama saw Australia’s Pat Cummins shine as he claimed a remarkable 5/49, triggering a collapse that saw Pakistan lose 5/18 in pursuit of a 317-run target. Cummins, leading from the front as captain, amassed a total of 10 wickets in a commanding performance over the five days.

While multiple batters made notable contributions, Mitch Marsh emerged as the most consistent, scoring a total of 137 runs across both innings with scores of 41 and an agonisingly close 96 in the second innings. Pakistan’s Shan Masood stood out for his team, notching up scores of 54 and 60. Left-arm bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Mir Hamza showcased their skill, causing trouble for Australia by reducing them to 4/16 in the second innings and claiming a combined 12 wickets in the match.

The match kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball, delivering a fitting spectacle for the occasion. Anticipation is high for the upcoming SCG test, especially since it marks the annual ‘pink’ Test and David Warner’s farewell match. Both teams are expected to maintain a similar playing XI, with Australia confirming an unchanged lineup for Warner’s final hurrah, and Pakistan likely to follow suit.

With the significance of the SCG test, being the ‘pink’ test and Warner’s farewell, Australia appear motivated and holds promise to sweep the series 3-0. The hosts’ determination and the sentimental value attached to Warner’s farewell are likely to fuel their resolve for a comprehensive victory in the series finale.