Pakistan defeated Australia by 8 wickets in the third and final match of the ODI series in Perth, securing a historic series win at home after 22 years. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s cricketing history, as they overcame the formidable Kangaroos in the deciding match.
Pakistan’s Pace Attack Destroys Australia’s Batting Lineup
Australia, batting first after losing the toss, struggled to find stability as Pakistan’s pace bowlers dominated. Pakistan’s fast-bowling quartet, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain, dismantled the Australian lineup with precision and power. The Australians were bowled out for a modest total, with only Sean Abbott managing to make an impact with 30 runs. Six Australian players failed to reach double figures, including the top-order who were dismissed cheaply.
Australia’s Batting Collapse
Australia’s top-order faltered early, with Jack Fraser-McGurk dismissed for just 7 runs, and Matthew Short contributing only 22 runs. Captain Josh Inglis fell for 7 runs, while Aaron Hardy managed just 12. The middle order fared no better, with Cooper Connolly retiring hurt after being struck on the hand by Mohammad Hasnain. Glenn Maxwell’s poor form continued as he was dismissed without scoring for the third consecutive time in the series, this time by Haris Rauf. All-rounder Marcus Stoinis could only manage 8 runs, and Adam Zampa contributed 13 runs before being sent back.
Shaheen Shah and Naseem Shine with the Ball
Pakistan’s fast bowlers were the stars of the show, with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah both taking 3 wickets apiece. Haris Rauf picked up 2 wickets, and Mohammad Hasnain added one more to his tally. Their combined effort reduced Australia to a mere 127 runs in just 35.2 overs, giving Pakistan a modest target to chase.
Pakistan’s Confident Chase
In response, Pakistan chased down the target comfortably in just 27 overs, losing only 2 wickets along the way. The opening partnership once again laid the foundation with a solid 84-run stand. Saeem Ayub, who had scored a half-century in the previous match, contributed a quick-fire 42 runs. Abdullah Shafiq added 37 runs before being dismissed. Captain Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 30 runs, and Babar Azam supported with 28 runs. Linus Morris was the only Australian bowler to claim wickets, taking both Pakistani wickets.
A Historic Win for Pakistan
This win secured the ODI series for Pakistan 2-1, marking their first series victory over Australia at home in 22 years. Pakistan’s victory is all the more impressive given that Australia made five changes to their playing XI in this decider, resting key players ahead of their upcoming Test series against India.
Earlier Matches: A Roller-Coaster Series
The series had started with an exciting contest, where Australia defeated Pakistan in a thrilling first ODI. However, Pakistan bounced back in the second match with an impressive 9-wicket victory, leveling the series 1-1. The final match saw Pakistan’s bowlers dominate and their batters chase down the target with ease, clinching the series victory.
Key Performances
- Pakistan’s Pace Attack: Shaheen Shah Afridi (3 wickets), Naseem Shah (3 wickets), Haris Rauf (2 wickets), Mohammad Hasnain (1 wicket)
- Pakistan’s Batting: Saeem Ayub (42), Abdullah Shafiq (37), Mohammad Rizwan (30*), Babar Azam (28)
- Australia’s Batting: Sean Abbott (30), Jack Fraser-McGurk (7), Matthew Short (22)
This historic series victory will go down in the annals of Pakistan’s cricket history, cementing the team’s place as a formidable force in ODI cricket on home soil.
