Pakistan’s opening duo, Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, along with pacer Haris Rauf, delivered stellar performances to lead their team to a dominant victory in the second ODI of the three-match series at Adelaide Oval on Friday.
Key Contributions from Ayub, Shafique, and Rauf Seal Pakistan’s Win
Ayub’s brilliant 82, Shafique’s unblemished 64, and Rauf’s remarkable five-wicket haul were pivotal in Pakistan’s resounding 1-1 series draw, marking their first win over Australia on home soil since 2017. Pakistan comfortably chased down the modest target of 164, losing just one wicket and finishing with 141 balls to spare.
Opening Stand Sets the Tone for Pakistan’s Chase
The opening pair of Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique set the tone for Pakistan’s chase with an impressive 137-run partnership. Ayub was the aggressor in the stand, but fell just 18 runs short of a maiden half-century. His early departure did little to hinder Pakistan’s progress as Shafique guided them home with an unbeaten 64.
Pakistan’s Strong Bowling Display, Led by Rauf
Haris Rauf’s superb bowling performance was the backbone of Pakistan’s victory. Rauf claimed five wickets to dismantle the Australian batting lineup, allowing Pakistan to bowl out their opponents for just 163 runs. This clinical bowling effort ensured Pakistan could cruise to the target with ease.
Lineups for the Match
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain.
Australia: Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis (wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa.
