Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith's heroic partnership rescues Australia from brink of collapse

Mitchell Marsh played a counter-attacking innings of 96, supported by the gritty Steve Smith, as Australia fought back from a precarious 16-4 to establish a commanding 241-run lead against Pakistan in the second Test.

Facing adversity after dismissing Pakistan for 264 in response to their first innings 318, the hosts found themselves in dire straits at 16-4.

However, Marsh and Smith’s determined 153-run partnership proved to be a potential match-saving effort.

At the close of day three, Australia reached 187-6, with Smith departing for 50 in the final over, leaving Alex Carey unbeaten on 16. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mir Hamza starred for Pakistan, each claiming three crucial wickets.

Abdullah Shafique’s slip catch spillage when Marsh was on 20 proved pivotal. Marsh, falling just four runs short of a century, acknowledged the missed opportunity but expressed optimism, stating, “From 16-4, if you’d told us we’d have a 240-run lead at the end of the day, we’d take that.”

Reflecting on the game’s balance, Marsh added, “It’s evenly poised. As we saw, I think there’s still enough in the wicket, so add a few more runs tomorrow and we’ll give it our all.”

Earlier in the day, Pat Cummins’ brilliant 5-48 and Nathan Lyon’s 4-73 dismantled Pakistan. Usman Khawaja’s early dismissal and David Warner’s farewell innings marked a challenging start for Australia. However, Marsh and Smith’s determined stand revitalized the home team.

Warner, receiving a standing ovation in his final appearance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, succumbed to a Mir Hamza delivery.

Travis Head’s dismissal left Australia reeling at 16-4, but Marsh and Smith’s partnership provided a crucial turnaround.

With the third Test in Sydney set to be David Warner’s last in a stellar career, the ongoing match in Melbourne has become a pivotal moment in the series.

As the players prepare for day four, the outcome remains uncertain, promising a thrilling conclusion to this gripping Test match.