/betbarter/media/agency_attachments/3YXcMKaocLoKtpo5Mw2o.png)
/betbarter/media/media_files/uWGPxABIFg4ghOvTVy3g.png)
David Warner will play his final Test at the SCG next week.
After a brutal drubbing in Perth, Pakistan arrived at the MCG determined to claw back some pride. Their bowlers roared to life, skittling out Australia for a modest 318. Hope surged through the Pakistan camp, but disaster struck as their batting crumbled, reaching just 264 despite a promising start. At 124-2, they seemed poised for a bigger total, but momentum inexplicably evaporated. Mohammad Rizwan's counter-attack and crucial contributions from Aamer Jamal and Shaheen Shah Afridi salvaged some respectability, but the missed opportunity left a bitter taste.
Trailing by 54, Pakistan's bowlers stood up once again, demolishing Australia's top order in a stunning display. Afridi and Mir Hamza led the charge, tearing through the batting line-up like sharks through chum. Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, David Warner, and Travis Head – all fell in quick succession. Australia were left reeling at 16-4, and the MCG crowd stunned into silence.
However, the tide began to turn with the arrival of Steven Smith and Mitchell Marsh at the crease. The experienced duo weathered the storm and steadied the Australian innings with a determined 136-run partnership. With their lead now extended to 206, Australia is in a much stronger position than they were just a few hours ago. Pakistan's bowlers face a daunting task – they need to break this stubborn partnership and dismiss the remaining Australian batsmen quickly. Chasing a large total in the fourth innings on this MCG pitch will be no easy feat for Pakistan's shaky batting lineup, which has struggled throughout the tour.
Warner gets a standing ovation from MCG crowd
David Warner, ends his Boxing Day Test cricket journey.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 28, 2023
- A beautiful gesture by giving the gloves to a young cricket fan. 🫡pic.twitter.com/JB6CKQ8yoF
The Melbourne Cricket Ground witnessed a moment etched in cricketing history. Today, fans bade farewell to their beloved opener, David Warner, in his final Test innings at the iconic venue. While his score may not have reflected the legend he is, the outpouring of love and appreciation from the crowd spoke volumes. As Warner departed, the entire MCG rose in a thunderous standing ovation. Warner acknowledged the adulation, raising his bat and offering a heartfelt thumbs up. Having spotted a young fan in the stands, Warner handed his batting gloves to the ecstatic youngster. The moment captured the essence of cricket which is the connection between players and fans, the legacy that transcends statistics and trophies.
The SCG will soon gear up for a New Year's Test unlike any other. Next week, it's not just the year flipping, it's David Warner's final match in Test cricket. The Sydney air will thrum with a mix of cheers and farewells, as fans roar their hero home.