AUS vs PAK LIVE: Carey’s resilient 50 on Day 4 sets Pakistan daunting target of 317

AUS vs PAK LIVE Score 2nd Test, Day 4: In a captivating turn of events on Day Four of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey showcased remarkable resilience under pressure, crafting a crucial half-century that propelled Australia to a second-innings total of 262. With a lead of 316 runs, Australia now sets Pakistan a challenging target of 317 runs to win the Test match.

Facing a stern examination, Carey’s gritty innings of 53 not out proved to be the linchpin for Australia’s lower order, steering them into a commanding position. The MCG witnessed sunny conditions as Carey’s determined knock not only provided a substantial lead but also left Pakistan’s batters with a demanding task ahead.

The journey to this formidable position was not without early setbacks for Australia, who found themselves reeling at 16 for 4 within the first six overs. However, a remarkable 153-run partnership between Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith resurrected the innings, becoming the highest fifth-wicket stand in Test history when the team’s total was 20 for 4 or lower.

Marsh, having been given a reprieve when he was dropped on 20 by Abdullah Shafique, capitalized on the opportunity, notching up an impressive 96 off 130 balls. His partnership with the watchful Smith, who took 101 deliveries to hit his first boundary, laid the foundation for Australia’s resurgence.

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Day 4 early recap: AUS vs PAK

Resuming at 187 for 6 on Day Four, Australia held the reins with a lead of 241. Despite a resilient performance by Pakistan’s spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, who finished with figures of 4 for 76 from 27 overs, the visitors struggled to make early inroads. Carey and Mitchell Starc added crucial runs, frustrating Pakistan’s attempts to break through.

However, Afridi finally delivered the breakthrough Pakistan needed by dismissing Starc, caught at first slip by Babar Azam. While Pakistan shuffled fielding positions, seeking a change in fortune, Carey stood firm, supported by Pat Cummins, as the Australian lead surged past the 250-run mark.

Carey, who entered the summer under scrutiny, displayed composure and determination, nudging the ball around and occasionally unleashing audacious shots, including an upper-cut over the slips off Afridi. His partnership with Cummins frustrated Pakistan, inching Australia closer to a lead of 300 runs.

Despite a brief hiccup with Cummins’ dismissal, Carey continued to anchor the innings, reaching his first half-century since the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. However, his innings came to an end when he fell lbw to left-arm quick Mir Hamza, who had been held back until the second new ball was taken.

As the day concluded, Australia was bowled out for 262, setting Pakistan a challenging target of 317 runs for victory. The stage is now set for a thrilling final day as Pakistan attempts to end their 15-Test losing streak in Australia, while Australia’s bowlers aim to secure a series-clinching win. The Boxing Day Test has delivered a gripping narrative, and cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama on the decisive day.

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