Hesitant Pakistan on the defensive by CricketArchive Staff Reporter

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Ground:	Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
Scorecard:	Australia v Pakistan
Player:	MEK Hussey, NM Hauritz, SR Watson, SM Katich
Event:	Pakistan in Australia 2009/10

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DateLine: 27th December 2009

 

Pakistan were in a bit of strife at 149 for 4 at stumps on the second day of the first Test at Melbourne on Sunday. Taken a bit by surprise when Australian skipper Ricky Ponting declared the Australian innings closed at 454 for 5, the visitors struggled to come to terms with batting at the MCG and fell back in the race.

 

Australia capitalised on a rocking 91-run fourth wicket stand between Michael Hussey and night watchman Nathan Hauritz, followed by another 72 between Hauritz and Michael Clarke, which helped Ponting declare.

 

In reply, Pakistan never really seemed to be at ease, and also relinquished wickets after spending time in the middle as a combination of some accurate bowling, hesitant batting and TV replays sent Australia back to the dressing room the happier team.