Mitchell Marsh secured a remarkable catch, crucial in dismissing Agha Salman during Day 4 of the second Test between Australia and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The spectacular catch played a key role in diminishing Pakistan’s chances of leveling the series before the third Test.
Agha Salman’s dismissal unfolded in the 68th over when Pat Cummins introduced Mitchell Starc into the attack. Starc’s bouncer led Salman to attempt a pull shot, resulting in a top edge.
Despite the ball appearing challenging, Mitchell Marsh sprinted in from the third man, executing a forward dive to secure the catch. Salman departed having scored 50 runs off 70 deliveries.
Mitch Marsh hangs on at third man! Whatta catch! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/BFC1LBXjeK
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2023
In the subsequent delivery, Mitchell Starc secured a decisive 79-run victory for Australia by delivering a sharp bouncer to Mir Hamza. Hamza, attempting to fend it off, produced an edge, and Steve Smith completed the dismissal with an impressive diving catch. With this win, Australia has clinched an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Mitchell Marsh’s crucial 96 in the second innings in Perth played a pivotal role in Australia’s victory
In the meantime, the seam-bowling all-rounder showcased exceptional batting performances in both innings, contributing 41 and 96 runs to bolster Australia’s total. His innings of 96 in the second innings proved crucial, as it came when the home side held a lead of only 70 runs with six wickets remaining.
Partnering with Steve Smith, Marsh forged a significant 153-run partnership, extending Australia’s lead to a substantial 241 runs by the end of Day 3. Alex Carey’s half-century of 53, along with valuable contributions from the lower-order batsmen, propelled Australia’s lead beyond 300.
Despite this, the Pakistan batters exhibited resilience and posed a threat in pursuit of the 317-run target, particularly in the last hour of Day 4. Pat Cummins, who had taken a five-wicket haul in the first innings, secured an additional five wickets to dismiss the visitors for 237.
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