• Australia reached 116/2 after rain forced early stumps on Day 2 of the SCG Test against Pakistan.

  • The Aussies are trailing by 197 runs in their first innings.

Twitter reactions: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne steady Australia on rain-hit Day 2 of SCG Test – AUS vs PAK 2023-24
Australia reach 116/2 at stumps on Day 2 of 3rd Test (Image Source: Twitter)

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In the midst of a crucial third and final Test match against Pakistan, Australia found themselves grappling with a challenging situation on Day 2 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Rain played spoilsport, interrupting play as Australia trailed by 197 runs in their first innings.

David Warner’s early escape and subsequent dismissal

The day began with all eyes on David Warner, playing his final red-ball fixture for the Aussies. Upon reaching 20 runs, the New South Wales cricketer survived a close call when Aamer Jamal‘s delivery found his outside edge, only for Saim Ayub to drop a straightforward catch at first slip. Warner went on to score 34 runs off 68 balls before falling victim to Agha Salman, caught by Babar Azam in the slip cordon during the pre-lunch session.

Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne’s steady partnership

Warner’s departure brought Marnus Labuschagne to the crease, who, along with , Usman Khawaja steadied the ship for Australia. The duo put on a resilient 70-run partnership for the second wicket before Salman struck again, dismissing Khawaja for a patient 47 runs off 143 balls.

Labuschagne, showing composure, remained unbeaten at 23 off 66 balls at the close of play, partnering with Steve Smith, who managed 6 runs before bad light halted proceedings. Jamal’s consistent form troubled the Australian batters, but Sajid Khan, Mir Hamza, and Hasan Ali toiled hard for 31 overs without any rewards.

Also WATCH: Saim Ayub drops a sitter of David Warner at first slip in SCG Test – AUS vs PAK 2023-24

Rain and bad light halt play

As the clock approached 4:52 local time, play was eventually called off due to rain, adding to the challenges faced by both teams. Australia concluded Day 2 at 116/2 in 47 overs, leaving them with considerable work to do on the upcoming third day of the match. The uncertain weather conditions have added an extra layer of complexity to the outcome of the game, setting the stage for an intriguing continuation of the Test match.

Here is how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: AUS vs PAK – What is Pink Test? Here’s all you need to know

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AKSHAT GAUR
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