Australia holds slight advantage after day 3 of AUS vs PAK boxing day test

The Boxing Day Test between Australia and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has reached a tense equilibrium after a riveting day 3. Australia, with a substantial lead of 241 runs and four wickets in hand, appears to hold a slight advantage in the match.

However, Pakistan remains in contention, and the outcome may tilt in their favor if they can dismiss the remaining Australian batters without conceding many runs. The day witnessed notable performances, including Pat Cummins' five-wicket haul and the impactful bowling of Mir Hamza and Shaheen Shah Afridi, making the test finely poised.

Pakistan fought valiantly in the first session, reducing the deficit as Mohammad Rizwan and Aamer Jamal added 45 runs before Pat Cummins dismissed Rizwan. Shaheen Shah Afridi's aggressive cameo and Hasan Ali's contributions added crucial runs. Australia faced a challenging period as Mir Hamza and Shaheen Shah Afridi took key wickets, tilting the scales in Pakistan's favor.

Mitchell Marsh's dismissal for 96 and Steve Smith's resilient half-century kept Australia afloat, but Afridi's lethal bouncer claimed Smith's wicket in the final delivery of the day, giving Pakistan a significant boost. With Alex Carey and Pat Cummins yet to bat, the outcome remains uncertain, adding anticipation to the fourth day.