Pakistan’s cricket team has achieved a significant milestone by securing a 2-1 victory over Australia in their recent one-day international (ODI) series. This win marks Pakistan’s first ODI series triumph in Australia since 2002, showcasing remarkable talent and resilience on the field.
In the decisive third match held in Perth, Pakistan’s fast bowlers exhibited exceptional skill and strategy, successfully dismissing the Australian team for a mere 140 runs. The Pakistan batting lineup efficiently chased down this target in just 27 overs, winning the match by eight wickets. Captain Mohammad Rizwan and former captain Babar Azam orchestrated a confident response, ensuring that the team clinched the series victory.
Australia’s decision to rest its leading players for this crucial match, as they prepare for an upcoming five-match Test series against India, resulted in a lackluster performance. Despite the hosts fielding a less experienced side, Pakistan remained undeterred, having narrowly lost the opening match and then rebounding impressively with a nine-wicket victory in the second game of the series.
Key performances came from fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, who each claimed three wickets, demonstrating a blend of pace and swing that proved too challenging for the Australian batting order. The bowling attack effectively dismantled the Australian lineup, with notable dismissals including captain Josh Inglis on his debut, as well as a series of quick wickets that left Australia struggling at 79 for 5.
The discipline shown by the Pakistan seamers throughout the match ensured the Australian batting lineup never found its rhythm. The visitors maintained consistent pressure, and none of the Australian batsmen could significantly establish themselves, with Sean Abbott managing to top-score with just 30 runs.
In response, Pakistan’s Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique exhibited fluency and aggression at the crease, crafting an opening stand of 84 runs. Their calculated approach paved the way for a comfortable innings, leading to Rizwan and Azam concluding the match with poise.
Pakistan’s successful campaign in Australia continues with three upcoming Twenty20 internationals, commencing in Brisbane. This victory not only elevates the morale of the Pakistani team but also highlights the nation’s cricketing prowess on an international stage.
#SportNews #MiddleEastNews