Australia secured a clean sweep over Pakistan in a resounding conclusion to the three-match series, sealing an 8-wicket victory in the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Despite Pakistan’s aspirations, their quest to triumph over the Australian test team on its home turf remained elusive, extending a winless streak since 1996.
In a farewell Test innings, David Warner, playing his 112th match before retirement from the format, displayed a memorable performance.
Warner’s crucial 57 runs in the last inning proved pivotal in chasing down Pakistan’s target of 130 runs, contributing to Australia’s series sweep.
The left-handed opener shared a poignant moment with his childhood friend and opening partner, Usman Khawaja, at the boundary rope.
Despite Khawaja’s early departure for a duck, Warner showcased his batting prowess, reaching his 37th Test half-century in trademark style.
Warner’s innings, comprising seven boundaries, ended with spinner Sajid Khan trapping him in front, leaving Australia just 11 runs shy of victory with a day to spare.
The home crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground, numbering over 22,000, rose in a final ovation for Warner, acknowledging his impactful career despite the 2018 ball-tampering scandal that led to a one-year ban from international cricket.
Marnus Labuschagne’s unbeaten 62 runs ensured Australia’s successful pursuit of the target shortly after Warner’s departure, securing the series sweep.
Warner’s farewell innings contributed to his impressive career tally of 8,786 runs in 112 tests at an average of 44.59, featuring 26 centuries since his debut against New Zealand in 2011.
Pakistan’s hopes of setting a formidable target were dashed by their own batting frailties, especially against Josh Hazlewood’s exceptional performance, taking 4-16 in the penultimate over of the day on Friday.
Despite glimpses of promise, including Mohammad Rizwan’s score of 28, Pakistan faltered in the final innings, adding only 47 runs to their overnight tally before being dismissed for 115.
Captain Shan Masood’s decision to delay Aamer Jamal’s bowling until after lunch raised eyebrows, and Pakistan’s missed opportunities allowed Australia to capitalize and secure the series sweep.
