In a decisive showcase of bowling discipline and lower-order composure, Pakistan defeated Australia by 4 wickets at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, to clinch the 3-match ODI series 2-1. The win was spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi’s fiery spell combined with Shadab Khan’s brilliance as an all-rounder. Pakistan was able to chase down a target that awarded them their third consecutive ODI series victory over Australia.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan won against Australia by four wickets after restricting them to 157 runs.
- This series win is Pakistan’s third consecutive ODI series victory over Australia.
- Pakistan will now look to build momentum before their upcoming international assignments.
Australia Vs Pakistan: Third ODI Breakdown
Shaheen Afridi Sparks Australia’s Collapse
The Pakistan vs Australia decisive point was when Josh Inglis won the toss and made the decision to bat. While it seemed like things were in their favour, Australia’s luck soon came apart. Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissed Matthew Short within the second ball of the innings.
Josh Inglis fired back with a firm 65 off 71 deliveries. While this was a promising foundation. Australia’s middle order failed to take advantage and curate meaningful partnerships. When Shaheen removed Inglis, the innings collapsed drastically. Australia went down from 119-3 to 157 all out. This cost them the loss of seven wickets for just 38 runs.
The role that Abrar Ahmed played in the match was also crucial. The spinner played with stellar control and returned figures of 2-19 from 10 overs. Shadab Khan went on to strike twice, leaving no possibility for Australia to recover from the collapse.
Babar Anchors as Australia Fight Back
Chasing 158 looked straightforward on paper, but the Pakistan vs Australia contest had plenty of twists up its sleeve.
Maaz Sadaqat started off fiercely with 27 runs from 26 balls. Meanwhile, Babar Azam played the stabiliser’s role perfectly. His patient 40 off 84 deliveries kept Pakistan’s innings together despite regular wickets falling around him.
Australia’s Matthew Kuhnemann threatened to steal the match. His impressive 3-38 sparked hopes of an unlikely comeback. When Pakistan slipped to 112-6, the pressure firmly trained itself back onto the hosts.
Shadab and Samad Deliver the Finishing Touch
With the match hanging in the balance, Shadab Khan and Abdul Samad produced the partnership that defined the series.
The pair added an unbeaten 49 runs for the seventh wicket. Shadab remained unbeaten on 29, while Samad contributed a composed 18 not out. Together, they guided Pakistan to 161-6 with more than eight overs remaining.
Speaking after the match, Shaheen praised the collective effort.
“All bowlers executed plans well to keep Australia down to 157.”
He added:
“I think it was a complete team effort throughout the series.”
A Statement Win for Pakistan Cricket
Beyond the scoreline, this Pakistan vs Australia series reflected the team’s growing maturity. Despite losing the second ODI, the team did not let it dishearten them and bounced back with discipline.
The victory is also a testament to the power of young talent. While more seasoned professionals like Shaheen and Babar led things from the front, players like Maaz Sadaqat and Abdul Samad were able to contribute in a meaningful manner.
FAQs
1. Who won the Pakistan vs Australia ODI series?
Pakistan won the Pakistan vs Australia ODI series with a 2-1 score.
2. Who was Player of the Match in the third ODI?
Shaheen Shah Afridi won Player of the Match in the third ODI.
3. Who was Player of the Series?
Arafat Minhas was named Player of the Series.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest Sports news and updates
