BLOG: Second Test Australia vs Pakistan at the MCG – Day 3
STUMPS: AUSTRALIA 2/278 Smith 10* Khawaja 95* PAKISTAN 9/443 dec
David Warner has broken the drought. His 17th Test century is a maiden at the MCG and his first since January. He toiled through a tense first hour to return to fluid shot making. Ultimately dismissed on 144 Warner will be most pleased with himself with his Test average dwindling in comparison to his ODI career. Usman Khawaja’s talent is reassuringly evident and in addition to his calm demeanour he looks cemented in the number 3 spot.
Highlights of the spectacular final session of day 3.
TEA: AUSTRALIA 1/133 Warner 77* Khawaja 39* PAKISTAN 9/443 dec
In the early overs of the middle session Azhar Ali’s (205*) patient, faultless innings was stamped to be forever recognised as a double century. Sohail fell quickly after the break due to slow running making a bullish 65. The Pakistan declaration came not long after. Despite a tense opening hour including the wicket of Renshaw the momentum has swung in Australia’s favour. Inconsistent bowling released the pressure off the top order Warner reaching his half century and Usman Khawaja is looking increasingly comfortable at number 3 playing several glorious strokes to the boundary
Mike Hussey and Tom Moody wraps up the 2nd session on day 3 at the MCG
LUNCH: PAKISTAN 7/433 AZHAR ALI 196* SOHAIL KHAN 65*
A swashbuckling 65 from Sohail Khan has possibly upset Pakistan’s plan to declare with Azhar Ali remaining unbeaten on 196 at lunch. It’s a good problem for Misbah-Ul-Haq to have as the batsmen have brought the Australian attack to their knees.
Hear Tom Moody and Damien Fleming sum up the 1st session of day 3. Very entertaining highlights to follow.
Tom Moody caught up with Pakistan coach and former Macquarie Media expert Mickey Arthur before the resumption of play on day 3. Mickey talks fondly of the work ethic and challenges facing his team.
Click here for all the action (between rain delays) from days 1 and 2.