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The cricketing world is eagerly awaiting the commencement of second Test between Australia and Pakistan, the next chapter in the three-match series. Scheduled to kick off on December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the match promises high-stakes cricketing action on the celebrated Boxing Day.
As the teams gear up for the pivotal clash, Australia have decided to maintain consistency in their playing eleven. The Australian brigade, which emerged victorious in the first Test at Perth, will enter the field in the upcoming battle at the MCG. This strategic decision reflects the team management’s confidence in the players’ performance and synergy.
On the other hand, Pakistan have named a 12-man for the Boxing Day Test. Their final eleven will be disclosed only at the toss, injecting an element of anticipation and strategy into captain Shan Masood‘s approach. The flexibility in Pakistan’ squad composition indicates a thoughtful approach, keeping in mind the conditions and challenges posed by the MCG pitch.
Tests stats and records at the MCG:
- Total matches: 116
- Matches won batting first: 56
- Matches won batting second: 42
- Average 1st innings scores: 307
- Average 2nd innings scores: 313
- Average 3rd innings scores: 252
- Average 4th innings scores: 171
- Highest total recorded: 628/8 (142 Ov) by Australia vs Pakistan
- Lowest total recorded: 36/10 (23.2 Ov) by South Africa vs Australia
MCG Pitch Report:
The pitch at the MCG is renowned for being among the most competitive surfaces globally. It provides an optimal equilibrium between bat and ball, granting bowlers assistance in the initial stages with consistent and genuine bounce. As the pitch ages, batsmen can confidently unleash their strokes. Nevertheless, spinners typically find limited assistance at this venue.
Captain winning the toss is likely to field first.
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Melbourne Weather Forecast:
The likelihood of rain persists during the initial three days of the second Test. However, conditions are anticipated to ameliorate on the 4th and 5th day, with temperature ranging between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.
Australia vs Pakistan 2nd Test, Playing XI:
Australia: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
Pakistan (Probable): Imam-Ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Mir Hamza, Aamir Jamal, Sajid Khan
