Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh exhibited resilience as they propelled Australia to a commanding 402-run lead over Pakistan on day four of the Perth Test. Starting the day at 84-2, Australia reached 186-4 by lunch, setting the stage for a likely declaration later in the day.
Khawaja’s unbeaten 68, coupled with Marsh’s 42 not out, formed a crucial partnership of 79 runs. The hosts, having bowled out Pakistan for 271, maintained their dominance after posting a first-innings total of 487.
The challenging conditions on a deteriorating pitch, marked by visible cracks, posed difficulties for both teams. Pakistan’s pace bowlers, in particular, created problems for the Australian batsmen early on day four.
Debutant Khurram Shahzad made a significant breakthrough by dismissing Steve Smith lbw for 45 in the fourth over of the day. Despite Smith’s review, replays confirmed the ball clipping the top of the bails.
Travis Head’s aggressive entry included a straight drive boundary, but a misjudged drive led to his dismissal for 14. Marsh and Khawaja faced reviews in an intense over, surviving the pressure from the Pakistani bowlers.
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Marsh’s sixes off Aamer Jamal and spinner Agha Salman provided momentum, while a crucial escape on 23, courtesy of a dropped catch by skipper Shan Masood, added to the drama. Khawaja, grinding away, achieved his 25th Test half-century off 151 balls before accelerating after reaching the milestone. As the day unfolds, Australia aims to assert further dominance, setting the tone for an intriguing conclusion to the Test match in Perth.
