Australia asserted control in the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon putting Pakistan on the back foot at 194-6 on day two, still trailing by 124 runs.

At stumps, Mohammad Rizwan held firm at 29, while Aamer Jamal remained unbeaten at two. Cummins claimed key wickets, dismissing Abdullah Shafique (62), Babar Azam (one) and Agha Salman (five). Lyon also made an impact by removing Imam-ul-Haq (10) and Shan Masood (54), while Josh Hazlewood contributed by bowling Saud Shakeel for nine.

Reflecting on the day, Captain Cummins expressed satisfaction, stating,

“It feels like we’re well into their order now.”

He praised Australia’s batting performance, reaching 300 after a challenging start. The hosts had claimed seven wickets in the morning session, restricting Pakistan to 318.

Aamer Jamal led Pakistan’s bowling attack with 3-64 as Australia resumed on 187-3. Despite an optimistic start by openers Haq and Shafique, Lyon’s spin broke through, with Haq edging to Labuschagne at slip. Shafique and Masood built a partnership, but Cummins’ sharp catch and Lyon’s spin disrupted their momentum.

Marnus Labuschagne, the top-scorer with 63, continued his resilience from day one. He brought up his 17th Test half-century and anchored the innings. Travis Head showcased aggression but fell on 17. Despite the challenges, Labuschagne’s wicket eventually fell to Jamal.

Pakistan capitalized on the new ball, dismissing Carey, Starc and Marsh. A fiery over by Hasan Ali saw multiple appeals, but Marsh survived after reviewing two decisions. However, Jamal’s persistence paid off as he claimed Marsh’s wicket and the tail quickly followed.

Australia, having won the first Test by 360 runs in Perth, aim to maintain their dominance in the series. As Pakistan faces a challenging position, the third day promises crucial moments in the battle between bat and ball.