Australian seamer Jackson Bird claimed two crucial wickets just before rain stopped play on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan at the MCG on Monday.

When tea was called early due to rain, the visitors were 142 for four with opener Azhar Ali on 66 and first Test centurion Asad Shafiq on four, and that proved to be the stumps score as well.

The rain continued after tea and play was abandoned without any more action.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat the visitors made a cautious start but only Ali was able to build an innings of substance.

SCORES IN BRIEF

PAKISTAN: First innings 142 for 4 (Azhar 66 not out, Azam 23, Younis 21; Bird 2-53)