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Pakistan's practice match against Victorian XI ends even

The second Test between Pakistan and Australia is scheduled to take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26 to December 30

Pakistan's practice match against Victorian XI ends even PHOTO: AFP

The two-day practice match between Pakistan and Victorian XI at Junction Oval concluded with a draw after an intriguing display of cricket from both sides.

Pakistan started the match with a solid batting performance in their first innings, declaring at 323-8 in 78.4 overs.

Saud Shakeel (70 retired) and Mohammad Rizwan (50 retired) laid a strong foundation. Salman Ali Agha contributed with a well-crafted 51, and Sarfaraz Ahmed (35), Siam Ayub (30), and Abdullah Shafique (26) made valuable contributions. Imam ul Haq scored 37, steering the team towards a competitive total. 

The Victorian XI bowlers faced resistance, with FC Warren (3-69) leading the attack, supported by MF Fotia (2-44), WB Parker (1-52), SM Elliott (1-40), and TR Pearson (1-48).

In response, Victorian XI posted a competitive total of 272-4 in 59 overs in their first innings. Opener MH Harris impressed with a brilliant 126, anchoring the innings. DJ Brasher remained unbeaten with a solid 79, while BR Thomson (30) and WJ Pucovski (4) also contributed. 

The Pakistan bowlers shared the wickets, with Shaheen Afridi (1-37), Mir Hamza (1-69), Sajid Khan (1-53), and Hassan Ali (1-53) each making breakthroughs.

With the match was heading towards a draw, Pakistan batted again in the second innings, reaching 57-2 in 11.2 overs before the conclusion of the match. 

Abdullah Shafique remained unbeaten with a promising 39, while Shan Masood (6) and Sarfaraz Ahmed (10) were the batsmen dismissed. SM Elliott (1-6) and TR Pearson (1-8) managed to pick up wickets for the Victorian XI.