Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, showcased leadership once more, turning the tide as Pakistan seemed to dominate on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Abdullah Shafique was confidently batting at 62, and removing the opener required something extraordinary. Cummins delivered just that, displaying impressive reflexes to successfully complete a challenging return catch.
Shafique attempted to drive Cummins’ delivery down the ground but failed to hit the ball cleanly. The mistimed shot headed straight towards the Australian captain, who swiftly got down in time to make a solid catch.
Pat Cummins was really happy and shouted with joy, while Abdullah Shafique looked surprised and went back to the dressing room.
You can watch the video of dismissal here:
https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/1739880722968592412?s=46
Pat Cummins changes the game for Australia by taking a crucial wicket of Babar Azam
After dismissing Shafique, the Australian captain continued his success by removing the prolific Babar Azam for only one run in the very next over. Pat Cummins, with a wicket in hand, was in top form, delivering a seam movement from a good length.
Babar attempted to defend without adequately covering for the nip-backer, and the ball hit the stumps, passing through the gap between his bat and pad. Similar to Shafique in the previous over, Babar Azam could only stare in disbelief before heading back to the pavilion.
Here’s a video capturing Cummins’ second wicket:
https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/1739883741328146786?s=46
Pakistan performed admirably to dismiss Australia for a modest 318. At 124/1, it seemed like the visitors were finally in control in this series.
However, Cummins’ quick removal of two key wickets has shifted the momentum back to Australia, highlighting why the Australian skipper is regarded as one of the finest bowlers in contemporary cricket, particularly in the longest format.
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