Pakistan were bowled out for 296 in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, unable to overturn the massive first-innings deficit as Australia sealed a crushing innings victory in the Boxing Day Test. Despite showing greater resistance compared to their first innings, Pakistan never seriously threatened to extend the contest, with Australia’s disciplined bowling attack maintaining pressure throughout the final day.
Resuming the innings with survival as the primary objective, Pakistan began with more intent and structure than earlier in the match. The top order showed improved application, leaving the ball more decisively and looking to build partnerships rather than chase quick runs. For a brief period, there was hope that Pakistan could at least force Australia to bat again. However, the deficit proved too large, and sustained pressure eventually led to familiar collapses.
Australia’s bowlers were relentless in their execution. They did not chase wickets unnecessarily, instead focusing on tight lines and consistent lengths that gradually squeezed Pakistan’s scoring options. The seamers extracted movement from a surface that still offered enough life, while the spinners maintained control during the middle phases. Every partnership Pakistan attempted to build was halted before it could gain real momentum.
Several Pakistan batters fought hard, contributing valuable runs under trying circumstances. There were signs of resilience, particularly in the middle order, where batters spent time at the crease and forced Australia to work for breakthroughs. Yet the absence of a truly substantial partnership meant the required miracle was never realistic. Each dismissal pushed Pakistan closer to the inevitable conclusion.
The turning point came when Australia struck in quick succession after lunch, removing set batters and exposing the tail earlier than Pakistan would have liked. From that stage, the innings followed a predictable pattern. The lower order showed determination but lacked the technique and support to withstand sustained spells against a high-quality attack. Once the second new ball was taken, Australia wrapped things up efficiently.
From Australia’s perspective, the match was a comprehensive display of control across all departments. Their first-innings batting had created a decisive advantage, and the bowlers ensured there was no way back for the visitors. The fielding standards were equally sharp, with minimal errors and constant intensity, reinforcing the gap between the two sides.
For Pakistan, the second innings total of 296 reflected partial improvement but also highlighted ongoing concerns. While there was better temperament and longer stays at the crease, the inability to convert starts into defining scores remained a major issue. The match exposed shortcomings in adapting to Australian conditions, particularly against pace and bounce over long periods.
The defeat leaves Pakistan with significant questions heading into the remainder of the series. They will need to find ways to bat deeper, support their bowlers more effectively, and reduce the periods of sustained pressure that have repeatedly cost them Tests overseas. Australia, meanwhile, move forward with confidence, having asserted their dominance emphatically.
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