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In a dramatic turn of events during the second Test of the ongoing three-match series between Australia and Pakistan, the dismissal of Pakistan’s wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan became the focal point of discussions.
Mohammad Rizwan’s controversial dismissal on Day 4 of the MCG Test
The incident in the 61st over of Pakistan’s second innings when Rizwan failed to pick up a short ball delivered by Australia pacer Pat Cummins, reacting late and finding himself in an awkward position. A noticeable noise accompanied the ball’s passage as it went past him, prompting the home team to appeal.
The on-field umpire’s decision was challenged, leading to a review. The Hotspot technology displayed no mark on Rizwan’s arm as the ball passed him on its way to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. However, ‘Snicko’ indicated a spike as the ball passed the bat. Despite Rizwan’s lack of conviction, the third umpire Richard Illingworth deemed it out. This dismissal marked a significant moment as it resulted in Pakistan’s collapse. They lost their remaining 3 wickets for just 49 runs while chasing 317.
The contentious decision prompted Rizwan to express his anger. He got engaged in an animated chat with the on-field umpire, but the decision ultimately stood in favour of the Aussies.
Here’s the video:
Wicket 250 for Pat Cummins! 🎉
The third umpire decided the ball flicked Mohammad Rizwan's sweatband on the way through. #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance | #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/vTuDL5DmNB
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2023
Also READ: AUS vs PAK [WATCH] – Pakistan captain Shan Masood falls victim to Pat Cummins’ brilliance on Day 4 of MCG Test
Pakistan lost the match by 79 runs
Despite commendable efforts from Agha Salman at the opposite end, the tailenders failed to provide significant support. Players who walked in to bat at No. 8, 9, 10 and 11 were unable to open their account, culminating in Salman’s eventual dismissal for 50 as the ninth wicket.
Riding on Cummins’ five-wicket haul, Australia bundled out Pakistan on 237 in their second innings, eventually winning the Boxing Day Test 79 runs. With this win, the Cummins-side has taken an insurmountable 2-0 lead in the series and further emphasized Australia’s dominance over Pakistan in the home Test series.