In a cricketing spectacle Down Under, Australia clinched a resounding Test series triumph against Pakistan in Melbourne, with Pat Cummins emerging as the hero with a stunning performance. The captain's prowess shone as he claimed a remarkable 10-wicket haul in the match, sealing victory for his team by 79 runs within four days of intense play. Cummins' exceptional bowling, featuring figures of 5-49 in Pakistan's second innings, proved decisive as the visitors fell short in their pursuit of 317 runs.
As the match hung in the balance with Pakistan at 219-5, Cummins orchestrated a dramatic collapse, dismissing the last five batters for a mere 18 runs. Mitchell Starc provided valuable support, contributing with a commendable 4-55. The final blow came with the last four batters succumbing to ducks, leaving Australia jubilant and securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The resumption of play on day four saw Australia reach 262 all out, thanks to Alex Carey's impactful half-century.
Despite Pakistan's spirited efforts, highlighted by captain Shan Masood's 60 and Babar Azam's 41, Cummins' pivotal wickets, including the dismissals of Masood and Mohammad Rizwan, triggered a stunning turnaround. Salman Agha's valiant half-century was not enough as the lower order crumbled, and Cummins was rightfully awarded the player of the match for his exceptional bowling display throughout the series. The victory in Melbourne follows Cummins' stellar year, marked by successful leadership in retaining the Ashes and clinching the World Cup for Australia.
With a commanding 2-0 lead secured, Australia looks ahead to the final Test in Sydney, set to commence on 2 January. The series win caps off a remarkable year for Cummins and his team, underscoring their dominance in the international cricketing arena.
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