Pakistan pacer Aamir Jamal, a key player in the ongoing Test match between Pakistan and Australia, expressed optimism despite a batting setback on Day three of Sydney Test.
Addressing the media in the post-match presser after a challenging day on the field, Jamal acknowledged a momentary lapse but firmly asserted that such occurrences are part and parcel of the game.
“I am still pretty confident that we are in the game. I know it happened, but it can happen to anyone, to any team. We are still confident if we can get to 150-170, I think that would be a fighting total,” Jamal said.
Jamal also expressed a shift in momentum following the first innings. He also acknowledged the anticipated challenges in the fourth innings, emphasizing that both teams would face difficulties.
“Our momentum has changed after the first innings. We knew pitch behaviour is going to change. It is going to be worse in fourth innings, for us and for them as well,” he further added.
Opening up about his personal goals, Jamal revealed his aspiration to be the highest wicket-taker in the series. The pacer, who claimed an impressive six wickets in the innings, attributed his success to dedicated hard work.
“My aim was to be the highest wicket taker in this series. But I didn’t know I’ll get six wixkets in this innings. That’s all the hard work,” he concluded.
It is worth noting that Australia, having been dismissed for 299 in the first innings, faced a spirited fightback from Aamer Jamal, who claimed 6-69. However, Mitchell Marsh and Alex Carey’s partnership of 84 runs helped Australia recover.
Despite losing Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, Marsh’s contribution and Hazlewood’s late surge provided Australia with the upper hand. The match now hangs in the balance, with Pakistan’s last hopes resting on Rizwan and Jamal as they aim to set a target for Australia to chase in the final innings of this absorbing Test match in Sydney.