Australia has won the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan at the MCG by an innings and 18 runs.

A draw looked like the inevitable result after more than 100 overs were lost in the first four days.

That is, until Steve Smith and Mitch Starc put on a quick-fire 154 runs for the seventh wicket.

The pair smashed Australia to a 181-run lead early on Day 5, with Man of the Match Smith finishing unbeaten on 165.

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Australia’s bowlers then dismissed Pakistan for 163 in 53 overs.

In the end, there were still 15 overs left in the match.

Starc took 4/36, while Lyon took 3/33.

Mike Hussey said Nathan Lyon’s three wickets in the middle order were pivotal.

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