David Warner bid adieu to Test cricket with a 34-run knock as Pakistan maintained their stronghold over Australia’s batting on Sydney’s second day.
Despite a warm send-off from the home crowd, Warner’s hopes for a final Test century were dashed at the Sydney Cricket Ground, visibly disheartening the veteran opener.
At lunch, Australia stood at 78-1 with Usman Khawaja at 35 and Marnus Labuschagne at three, in response to Pakistan’s first-innings 313. Warner’s dismissal stemmed from a delivery with extra bounce and turn, resulting in an edge and a slip catch that left Australian supporters disappointed.
With a Test career starting in 2011, Warner leaves the format with 8,729 runs at an average of 44.53 and 26 centuries. His exit followed a fortunate escape on 20 when debutant Saim Ayub dropped a catch, extending Pakistan’s series of missed fielding opportunities.
Australia faced a challenging start against a formidable Pakistan bowling attack. Warner and Khawaja struggled to gain momentum, adding a mere 33 runs in the first hour of play.
ThE third Test concludes a three-match series, with Australia securing victory in Melbourne’s second Test with a tight 79-run win over the Christmas period.
Despite Warner’s departure, Australia maintains readiness for a strong response in the ongoing Test, boasting depth in their batting lineup for the second innings. As the match progresses, attention remains on Pakistan’s fielding lapses and missed chances, particularly Ayub’s error following his early dismissal in his debut innings.
The third and final Test in Sydney promises an enthralling contest as both teams vie for supremacy in the series’ final showdown.
