AUS vs PAK [WATCH]: Nathan Lyon’s marvellous delivery sends Abdullah Shafique packing

Table of Contents

Nathan Lyon’s out-of-the-box delivery to Abdullah Shafique
- Here is the video
Pakistan’s performance with the willow

On the second day of the first test during their tour of Australia, Pakistan were 132/2, showcasing a satisfactory performance against the formidable hosts. The standout moment that seized the attention of cricket enthusiasts was the dismissal of Pakistan opener Abdullah Shafique. The talented cricketer fell victim to a remarkable delivery by the seasoned Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon.

The wicket not only marked a crucial breakthrough for the Australian side but also ignited a palpable sense of excitement among the cricket fans. Lyon’s successful dismissal of Shafique brought his test wicket tally to an impressive 497, placing him a mere three wickets away from achieving the significant milestone of 500 Test wickets.

Nathan Lyon’s out-of-the-box delivery to Abdullah Shafique

During the second ball of the 37th over, Lyon delivered a precisely pitched length ball aimed at the leg stump. Shafique, displaying an aggressive approach, confidently advanced down the pitch with the intention of dispatching the ball over the mid-wicket region with a powerful stroke. However, the spinning delivery caught the inside edge of the right-handed batter’s willow, resulting in a flick that sent the red leather hurtling towards leg slip. Positioned adeptly, David Warner showcased his fielding prowess by sensibly securing the catch, effectively ending the 24-year-old’s innings.

Here is the video:

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Also READ – Twitter reactions: Pakistan batters display resilience after Aamer Jamal’s bowling brilliance against Australia in Perth Test

Pakistan’s performance with the willow

Following Australia’s imposing total of 487, the Pakistani opening duo of Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq displayed a commendable performance, thwarting the Australian attack for a significant portion of the day with a noteworthy 74-run partnership for the first wicket. Shafique, after a gritty innings, departed on 42.

Following his dismissal, skipper Shan Masood entered the fray with clear intent, quickly reaching 30 off 43 balls. Masood and Imam then forged a 49-run partnership for the second wicket, although Imam grappled with the challenging bounce of Perth. The day took a late turn when Mitchell Starc dismissed Masood by leveraging a successful review. Nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad (7* off 18) joined Imam (38* off 136), and both skilfully negotiated the remaining overs before the stumps.