Australia ended Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 463/9, firmly in control after building a dominant first-innings total on a surface that continued to offer something for both batters and bowlers. It was a day defined by resilience from Australia’s middle and lower order, balanced by Pakistan’s persistence with the ball, keeping the contest alive despite long spells in the field.
Resuming the day with a solid platform, Australia focused on extending their advantage rather than racing through the scoring. Pakistan’s pace attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, returned with renewed intensity in the morning session, targeting the fuller lengths that had brought them success late on Day 1. The early exchanges were competitive, with runs not coming freely and batters forced to work hard for every boundary.
Australia’s middle order showed discipline, absorbing pressure and ensuring there was no collapse. Partnerships, rather than individual brilliance, became the backbone of the innings. Singles were prioritised, bowlers were made to work across long spells, and Pakistan’s hopes of a quick clean-up were repeatedly delayed. The run rate remained controlled, but the scoreboard continued to tick over steadily.
Pakistan did manage to strike at regular intervals, preventing Australia from completely running away with the game. Shaheen Afridi once again stood out, extracting movement through the air and off the pitch, while support from the rest of the attack ensured there were no easy phases for the batting side. However, Australia’s depth proved decisive, as contributions from the lower order pushed the total beyond Pakistan’s comfort zone.
The afternoon session was particularly significant. With the second new ball approaching, Pakistan looked to exploit any extra bounce and seam, but Australia responded smartly. Batters played late, defended with soft hands, and capitalised when bowlers strayed in line. A handful of timely boundaries during this period stretched Pakistan’s field placements and added crucial runs.
As wickets fell toward the end of the innings, Australia remained focused on maximising their total rather than settling for what they had. The final partnership before stumps added valuable runs, frustrating Pakistan and pushing the score past the 450 mark — a psychological blow in a Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
From Pakistan’s perspective, the effort was far from wasted. Bowling a side out for 463 after being made to toil for two days required discipline and stamina, and there were encouraging signs in how the attack stuck to plans. The challenge now, however, is substantial. Australia’s total places immediate pressure on Pakistan’s batting unit, which will need to show both technique and temperament to avoid falling behind quickly.
Heading into Day 3, the focus will shift sharply. Australia will look to polish off the remaining wicket early and unleash their bowlers with attacking fields, knowing that runs are already on the board. Pakistan, meanwhile, must start positively with the bat — not recklessly, but with intent — to prevent Australia from dictating every phase of the Test.
At 463/9, Australia have done more than just post a big score; they have laid down a statement. Unless Pakistan respond with significant resistance, the Boxing Day Test is firmly tilting toward the home side.
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