How Pakistan Can Outshine Australia in the 3rd Test

In the ongoing Test series, Australia has dominated, leading to their series victory. However, as Pakistan gears up for the third Test in Sydney, they have a chance to regroup, leverage their strengths, and potentially change their fate from the series whitewash. Sydney’s match is crucial for Pakistan to showcase a strong comeback and end the series on a high note.

1. Pakistan possesses the capability to put up a fight

Despite being dominated in the first Test at Perth, Pakistan displayed remarkable resilience in the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Opting to bowl first, they kept themselves in the game until the final session of Day 4, showcasing their ability to bounce back. The key takeaway for Pakistan is the need to improve their fielding and capitalize on catching opportunities, as they have proven that with disciplined fielding, they can trouble the Australian camp.

2. The Conditions in Sydney Might Favor Pakistan

The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) presents a favorable setting for Pakistan. Traditionally offering more turn and less seam movement than other Australian pitches, the SCG’s conditions resemble those found in the subcontinent, providing a confidence boost for Pakistan’s batters. With a pitch that could aid spin and potentially offer reverse swing, Pakistan’s specialist off-spinner, Sajid Khan, could play a crucial role. If the visitors can capitalize on the conditions and post a competitive total, it could make life challenging for the Australian side.

3. Babar Azam is Poised for Significant Innings and He must Shine

Pakistan’s batting lineup has struggled collectively in the series, but the silver lining is the promising form shown by star batter Babar Azam. In the previous match, he displayed glimpses of his best with a commendable knock of 41, only to be dismissed by a brilliant delivery from Josh Hazlewood. Azam’s return to form could be the catalyst Pakistan needs to put up a solid first-innings score. Skipper Shan Masood’s positive batting approach and the potential contributions from Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, and the talented Saim Ayub can collectively bolster the batting unit.

With the series already decided, Pakistan has nothing to lose in the final Test. This lack of pressure might work in their favor, providing the players with the freedom to express themselves and play with flair. While Australia has secured the series victory, the World Test Championship (WTC) points at stake ensure that both teams have something to play for.

As Pakistan heads into the third Test in Sydney, the team has the potential to outshine Australia by addressing key areas such as batting stability, exploiting favorable pitch conditions, and building on the fighting spirit displayed at the MCG. With Babar Azam finding form, the Sydney conditions favoring spin, and the team’s ability to unsettle Australia evident in the previous match, Pakistan has an opportunity to salvage pride and end the series on a positive note. The unpredictability of the visitors could prove to be their greatest asset, keeping the Australian team on their toes and ensuring an exciting conclusion to the series.