WATCH: Pakistan Cricket team presents Christmas gifts to Australian players ahead of Boxing Day Test

In the opening match of a three-game Test series in Perth earlier this month, Australia and Pakistan clashed with no affection between them. Australia dealt a severe blow to Pakistan's aspirations for their inaugural Test victory on Australian grounds, securing a commanding 360-run win to seize a 1-0 lead.

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Outside the realm of cricket, the two teams share a close bond, exemplified by a heartwarming gesture from the Pakistani players and support staff before the second Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 26. While the Australian players were engaged in practice at the MCG's indoor facilities, accompanied by their families, the Pakistan contingent surprised them with gifts and candies for the young ones.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) posted a video showcasing their touching gesture, earning significant praise from fans. "Warm wishes and heartfelt gifts for the Australian players and their families at the MCG indoor nets," PCB wrote in the caption.

 Watch the video here;

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Pakistan team giving gifts to Australian players on Christmas day 🎄 🎅 pic.twitter.com/8VP6ZvSMwo

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 25, 2023

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 We’ve got a good relationship with the Pakistan side: Pat Cummins

During the recent encounter in the video, Australian captain Pat Cummins was observed engaging in conversation with his counterpart, Shan Masood while holding a gift basket. Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam was also present and was seen engaging in a discussion with David Warner.

“That was just great. Just Merry Christmas gifts and lollipops for the kids. So that was great. We’ve got a good relationship with the Pakistan side. That tour a couple of years ago was really special as well. So really kind and thoughtful of their group to think of us,” the Australian skipper Pat Cummins told ESPN Australia.

Returning to the second Test, the visiting team must secure a victory to stay competitive in the series. On the other end, the World Test Champions, under the leadership of Pat Cummins have proven to be a formidable force. Hence, it will be a challenging endeavor for the Pakistan side, which have been suffering from multiple injuries. Pakistan team have already announced their 12-member squad for the second Test. Notably, Sarfaraz Khan is being dropped and Mohammad Rizwan is set to get a game.