Australia kicked off their three-Test series against Pakistan with a resounding victory in Perth, claiming the first match by a commanding 360 runs. But beyond the triumph, the opening Test was brimming with exciting moments and lighthearted celebrations. One such heart-warming scene unfolded when batting icon Steve Smith, ever the alert fielder, spotted a piece of wayward plastic intruding on the field.
With a playful grin, he scooped it up and tossed it away, earning cheers from the crowd for his environmental awareness. The match also witnessed veteran spinner Nathan Lyon weave his magic, etching his name in cricketing history as he reached the coveted 500-Test-wicket mark. His jubilant celebration, arms raised in victory, was a fitting tribute to his dedication and skill.
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Opener David Warner laid the foundation for Australia’s dominance with a magnificent century, scoring 164 runs in the first innings. Mitchell Marsh chipped in with a solid 90, helping the hosts post a mammoth 487 on the board.
Fist pumps and high fives!
Not for anything cricket-related, but for picking up a piece of rubbish 😂#AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/wsb2sEZn6V
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 17, 2023
Aamer Jamal emerged as Pakistan’s lone hero in the first innings, bagging six wickets. However, Lyon turned the tables in the second, claiming three wickets and restricting Pakistan to 271 runs. Imam-ul-Haq top-scored for the visitors with 62.
Australia continued their relentless march in the second innings, adding 233 runs to their already substantial lead. Usman Khawaja’s 90 and Marsh’s unbeaten 63 ensured a mammoth target of 449 for Pakistan.
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The Aussie bowlers proved too hot to handle, led by Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc with three wickets each. Pakistan crumbled under the pressure, succumbing for a meager 89, handing Australia a convincing win. With this exhilarating victory, Australia take a 1-0 lead in the series. The next battleground awaits at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on Boxing Day, promising another clash of cricketing titans.
