Australia look dominant heading into the second Test against Pakistan after a first Test where they won all they key battles. James Richardson previews.
Pakistan had their chances to get back into that game but couldn’t do it, and that has been their problem on tours outside of Asia.
Warner hit a double century in Australia’s most recent Test Match at the MCG, leading to a stunning victory against a self-destructing South Africa. Meanwhile, Pakistan hasn’t won at the MCG since 1981, but they might draw encouragement from the fact that India was the last side to defeat Australia in a Boxing Day Test at the venue. Australia scored their highest-ever total at the site during Pakistan’s most recent visit.
To Win Match
Australia 1/3 | Draw 33/10 | Pakistan 10/1
Travis Head has already threatened to go off this series, and if the top order gives him a strong platform, he may be just the man to punish the older ball and pile on runs.
It’s not always about express speed at the MCG, and the sort of bowlers that will pose a threat may include Mitchell Marsh, Josh Hazlewood, and, as the match progresses, Nathan Lyon.
The David Warner farewell tour continues and despite causing a rift in the game in Australia he seems bent on a big finish.
Boxing Day Tests are traditionally all about sunshine and fast bowling, but the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitches haven’t been as lively as years gone by more recently.
Pakistan must find a way for their batters to stand up to the pace barrage that the hosts will send their way with the new ball. The best case scenario for them will be to get first use of the MCG pitch, but that will mean passing an early examination.
Their failure to put the Australian openers under pressure on the first morning of the first Test set in motion a series of events that saw them overwhelmed in the opener.
Pakistan need to get as much from their opening pair of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq as they can if they are to be competitive.
They will look to Shaheen Afridi for an early lift if they have to take to the field.
Verdict: Australia 1/3
Australia shouldn’t let a crack of light in for Pakistan.
