![AUS vs PAK [WATCH]: Agha Salman takes a brilliant catch to get rid of Mitchell Marsh on Day 3 of MCG Test](https://crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Agha-Salman-takes-a-brilliant-catch-to-help-Pakistan-get-rid-of-Mitchell-Marsh-2.webp "AUS vs PAK [WATCH]: Agha Salman takes a brilliant catch to get rid of Mitchell Marsh on Day 3 of MCG Test")
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The Boxing Day Test between Australia and Pakistan reached an exhilarating crescendo on Day 3 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The day was marked by fierce competition, with both teams displaying determination to gain control.
Among the many highlights, Agha Salman‘s brilliant catch to dismiss Mitchell Marsh became a defining moment in the game. The catch not only showcased Salman’s fielding prowess but also marked a crucial turning point in a day filled with intense cricketing action.
Pakistan’s morning surge
The day began with Pakistan resuming their innings at 194/6, aiming to build on their overnight total. However, the Australian bowlers, led by Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, had other plans. Aamer Jamal‘s lower-order contribution proved crucial, adding valuable runs to Pakistan’s total. Despite the resistance, Cummins secured a brilliant fifer, supported by Lyon’s four-wicket haul, as Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 264.
Australia’s turbulent start and Mitchell Marsh’s resilience
In response to Pakistan’s score, Australia found themselves in a precarious position early on, losing wickets to the fiery pace of Shaheen Afridi and Mir Hamza. However, the duo of Steve Smith and Marsh displayed resilience, steering the home side into a more favourable position. Marsh, in particular, showcased his prowess with the bat and seemed destined for a well-deserved century until he fell victim to Salman’s brilliance.
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Agha Salman’s moment of brilliance
The defining moment of the day unfolded in the 49th over when Marsh, batting on a brilliant 96, faced a good length delivery from Hamza and got a thick outside edge while looking to push the ball. The red cherry then went straight towards Salman at wide-ish first slip, who dove to his right, executing a superb one-handed low catch.
As Marsh was disheartened on missing his century, the MCG crowd erupted in appreciation for the extraordinary effort, recognizing the end of what could have been a match-winning innings.
Here’s the video:
Mitch Marsh gone for 96 – to an absolute belter at first slip from Agha Salman! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/KNUP3kDr3j
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 28, 2023
Salman’s catch not only dismissed a well-set Marsh but also swung the momentum in Pakistan’s favour as Australia further also lost Smith and finished the day at a score of 187/6. The brilliance exhibited by the Pakistan fielder showcased the importance of exceptional fielding in crucial moments of a Test match.
