Rain upsets Pakistan’s hard-earned momentum

Pakistan endured a day of frustration at the MCG, as light but persistent rain twice prevented them from pressing on with the game just when they seemed perfectly placed to do so.

Only 50.3 overs were possible on a day that first featured a three-hour break in play, from just before lunch, and then an early finish 20 minutes before the scheduled close. It was the first break, ten minutes before lunch, when the drizzle was at its mildest, which seemed to visibly annoy Pakistan’s coach Mickey Arthur the most.

Pakistan had negotiated an extended morning session until then without losing a wicket. Australia were on the verge of the second new ball at the time, though the decision to take it was made trickier by the risk of it getting wet on the outfield.

Australia captain Steven Smith was in …

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