New Delhi: The second match of the three-match Test series between Pakistan and Australia was played at the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi. The match ended in a thrilling draw as Pakistan failed to chase down the mammoth 506-run target given by Australia.
A total of 1244 runs were scored and 28 wickets fell during the second Test in Karachi, but the result of the match was inconclusive. Yet again, the pitch for the 2nd Test, which was slightly better than the pitch used in the series opener at Rawalpindi, is facing the wrath of fans and cricket pundits for its 'flat nature'.
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Earlier, Australia skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bat first, Aussies declared their first innings for 556/9. In reply, Pakistan could score 148 runs in their first innings. Australia had a lead of 408 runs on the basis of the first innings. They did not give Pakistan a follow-on even after taking a massive lead and declared their second innings at 97/2.
In this way, a target of 506 runs was set for the Pakistan team to win. The hosts came close to chasing down the target, but in the last session of the fifth day, their batters lacked intent.
After the dismissal of skipper Babar Azam (196), Pakistan batters started playing defensively. It looked like they just wanted to save the match and lost all hope of winning. In reply to Australia's 506 runs, Pakistan scored 443 runs in 171.4 overs for the loss of 7 wickets. Thus, the match resulted in a draw.
Australia vs Pakistan three-match Test series is being played under the ICC World Test Championship. The series decider i.e third Test match will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from March 21.