In a thrilling showdown at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the Day 3 of the third Test between Australia and Pakistan showcased a rollercoaster of fortunes. Fast bowler Aamer Jamal emerged as the pivotal figure, catapulting Pakistan into the lead with a remarkable display.

Australia’s hopes surged with Mitchell Marsh’s stellar form, steering them towards a crucial advantage alongside Alex Carey in an 84-run partnership. However, Carey’s dismissal, bowled by spinner Sajid Khan for 38, triggered a startling collapse. The Australian lower-order crumbled, losing 5 wickets for just 10 runs after tea. Jamal’s prowess shone as he claimed a five-wicket haul, securing Pakistan’s resurgence.

With Australia bundled out for 299, Pakistan held a narrow 14-run lead as they began their innings. Yet, their start was shaky, losing Shafique and Masood without scoring. Saim Ayub and Babar Azam provided stability with a fifty partnership, but Lyon’s crafty bowling broke the crucial stand. Ayub trapped lbw, and Babar, despite a promising start, fell victim to Head’s part-time bowling.

Australia’s Pat Cummins then orchestrated a pivotal moment by introducing Hazlewood. The tall pacer’s remarkable over rattled Pakistan, claiming wickets without conceding a run. Pakistan found themselves reeling at 82/7, heavily reliant on Aamer Jamal and Rizwan to steer them out of jeopardy. The game’s balance teetered, favouring Australia with the upper hand on a challenging pitch offering variable bounce and substantial turn. 

As Jamal and Rizwan aimed to stabilise Pakistan’s innings, the match hung in suspense, emphasising the unpredictability and challenge posed by the conditions. Pakistan, may have a lead of 83 runs, but they are reeling at the moment having lost 7 wickets in the process. In a compelling display of cricket, Australia’s assertive position hinted at control, yet the game remained precariously poised, illustrating the essence of Test cricket’s uncertainty and intrigue.