Pakistan Cricket team are at the center of trolling once again, owing to a lackluster fielding display that unfolded during the second Test of their tour to Australia. The team’s performance in the field have been a recurrent source of criticism, and this recent incident only added fuel to the fire. Surprisingly, their fielding woes reached a new low when a single delivery resulted in five runs conceded without a boundary or a no-ball.
Sloppy fielding by Shaheen Afridi
The incident occurred when Aamer Jamal bowled an in-swinger that Australian skipper Pat Cummins skillfully drove towards cover. After a brief run, fielder Hasan Ali retrieved the ball and promptly threw it towards the bowler’s end.
However, the situation took a turn for the worse as Shaheen Afridi, positioned to collect the throw, completely missed the ball. The red leather then raced towards the boundary. Sensing the urgency, Imam-ul-Haq made a determined run and managed to halt the ball just before it reached the boundary rope.
But, for Pakistan, the damage had been done, allowing Cummins and his partner, Alex Carey, to complete five runs through swift running between the wickets comfortably. This fielding lapse not only cost the guests crucial runs but also became a focal point of criticism, emphasizing the pressing need for improvement in Pakistan’s fielding skills at the international level.
Here is the video:
Have you seen this before? An all-run FIVE (with help from overthrows, of course)! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/gHxwJih45d
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2023
Also WATCH – AUS vs PAK: Pakistan captain Shan Masood falls victim to Pat Cummins’ brilliance on Day 4 of MCG Test
Pakistan to chase 317 runs
Despite facing early challenges with their batting, Australia showcased resilience and determination to set a challenging target of 317 runs for Pakistan in the MCG Test. The innings were bolstered by outstanding performances from Mitchell Marsh, who fell just short of a century with a brilliant 96, and the ever-reliable Steve Smith, who contributed a solid 50 runs. Additionally, Alex Carey‘s noteworthy knock of 53 played a pivotal role in guiding the hosts to a formidable total. In pursuit of the target, the Shan Masood-led side are struggling at the score of 162/5 after 46 overs.