Twitter Reactions: Resilient Labuschagne crafts Australia's day as Pakistan show character in Melbourne

In the second Test of the Australia-Pakistan series, staged at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground for the Boxing Day Test, the toss favoured Pakistan, who chose to bowl first on a pitch that favoured the pacers. This decision was no surprise given the conditions. Australia secured a commanding victory of 360 runs over Pakistan in the series' opening encounter. As the second Test approached, Australia held a 1-0 advantage in the three-match Test series. Pakistan made a change in their lineup, replacing former captain Sarfaraz Khan with Mohammad Rizwan in the playing XI.

David Warner, in his final appearance in whites on a Boxing Day Test, faced Shaheen Afridi's new ball attack, surviving an early chance. He fell victim to the last ball before Lunch after a productive opening session that saw Australia notch up 90 runs. Usman Khawaja, despite off-field distractions, managed a fluent 42 but failed to convert, much like two other batters.

Marnus Labuschagne stood strong, unbeaten at 44 off 120 balls, and Travis Head, having made a solid start, looks promising for the coming day's play. The hope for Australia is to convert the day one score of 187 for 3 into a total surpassing 350, a feat that could grant them substantial control over the match. While Shaheen Afridi bowled impressively without reaping rewards, Pakistan's bowling lacked consistency, with moments of brilliance but an overall struggle for control.

The Pakistani bowlers persistently tested the Australian batters, although their efforts lacked consistent precision. Despite some moments of pressure before and after a rain break, Labuschagne remained resolute at the crease, partnering with the adventurous Head. The upcoming day promises more excitement, with both teams eyeing crucial breakthroughs and a potential shift in momentum.  The next day's play is set to commence half an hour earlier to compensate for the overs lost due to rain, providing ample anticipation for cricket enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the unfolding Boxing Day Test drama at the MCG.

Here's how 'X' users reacted after Stumps on Day 1 of AUS vs PAK second Test: