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On the second day of the ongoing Boxing-Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper, showcased his brilliance behind the stumps with a breathtaking catch to dismiss Australian batter Alex Carey. This remarkable moment unfolded during the 83rd over of the Australian innings, highlighting Pakistan’s strong performance on the field.
Australia lose momentum in the morning session
On the second morning of the Test match, the Australian team faced a formidable challenge from the Pakistani pace attack. The hosts lost seven wickets for a mere 131 runs, with Marnus Labuschagne emerging as the top scorer, contributing 63 runs to the total. Aamer Jamal played a pivotal role for Pakistan, securing three crucial wickets for 64 runs.
Mohammad Rizwan’s acrobatic catch steals the show
The defining moment of the first innings occurred when Rizwan executed a remarkable one-handed catch to dismiss Carey. The dismissal came as Shaheen Afridi delivered a well-pitched ball just outside off, inducing a big drive from the left-handed Carey. Despite a thin inside edge, Rizwan’s lightning-quick reflexes and agility allowed him to complete a superb catch, sending Carey back to the pavilion.
Also WATCH: AUS vs PAK – Marnus Labuschagne and Hasan Ali chase off pigeons on Day 1 of MCG Test
Here is the video:
"A rip-snorter!"
Mohammad Rizwan with a pearler in his right glove! #PlayOfTheDay @Nrmainsurance #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/labVrr76Jw
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2023
Bowlers shine for Pakistan
Apart from Rizwan’s heroics, Pakistan’s bowling attack displayed exceptional skill and control. Jamal led the way with three wickets, while Afridi, Mir Hamza, and Hasan Ali each contributed with two wickets. Agha Salman also chipped in with a solitary scalp as Australia were bundled out for 318 runs in their first innings.
Australia’s batting struggles
With the exception of Labuschagne, who managed to score 63 runs, the Australian batting lineup struggled against the disciplined Pakistani bowlers. Usman Khawaja (42), Mitchell Marsh (41), and David Warner (38) were the only other batters to cross the 30-run mark.
