Pakistan vs Australia – Watson hauls Australia back from the brink

Shane Watson gave Australia a glimmer of hope that they could yet pull off an unlikely win in the second Test against Pakistan with his second five-wicket haul in as many games at Headingley.

The all-rounder shot through Pakistan’s tail immediately after lunch on the second day with a spell of four wickets for seven in 13 balls, to finish with career-best figures of six for 33.

It meant Pakistan, after bowling out Australia for just 88 yesterday, failed to build a decisive first-innings lead as they were bowled out for 258 – a lead of 170 runs.

Australia then moved to evens to win, having passed 100 runs after tea for the loss of just two wickets.

Ricky Ponting crafted an excellent 50 runs before the end of the day’s play, having uncharacteristically failed to make a half century in his last six Test matches.

Australia’s captain Ponting was joined at the crease by his vice-captain Michael Clarke, who appeared to be in similarly solid form.

To further enthuse the Australians, Pakistan’s lead was far less than the 206-run advantage they held after the first innings of the Sydney Test in January this year, when Australia recovered from being bowled out for 127 to win that match.

Can Pakistan find their clinical edge? They are 4/5 to win. See the full Pakistan vs Australia market.