Australia have a healthy lead against the West Indies as they head into day three of their Test match at Perth’s Optus Stadium. Having outplayed England in the first innings and continued to keep them on the back foot in the second, Australia’s lead now stands at 181 runs. The final, to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, has been dominated by both teams’ bowlers.
Australia managed 225 runs in their first innings. Steve Smith quickly established himself as the player to watch, going on to score a match-winning 48 runs on behalf of his team. Alzarri Joseph gave the West Indies an awe-inspiring start on their bowling attack. He delivered these in impressive numbers, bagging 4 wickets for only 33 runs.
The West Indies, in their reply, fared no better. They were bowled out for just 143 runs, with John Campbell’s 36 being the only solid contribution in an otherwise woeful display. Australia’s Scott Boland showcased his skills with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 34 runs, further solidifying Australia’s position in the match.
When the second innings began, Australia found it hard going again, losing 7 wickets for only 68 runs on the opening day. Cameron Green has put up his defense and is holding firm, still not out at 42 runs as of this writing. Pic by Jono Searle/Getty Images Alzarri Joseph was released to chase demons in Australia’s second innings. He took 3 wickets for just 19 runs helping to put the heat on the West Indies.
At the moment, Australia are 99 for 6 at the close of day two. Pat Cummins looks set to return to the field, joining Cameron Green at the start of day three. Their goal is to widen their margin and raise a much larger overall figure.
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