Pakistan Clinches Historic ODI Series Win Against Australia After 22 Years
In a historic feat, Pakistan’s national cricket team, under Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership, defeated Australia by eight wickets in the third and final ODI of the series, marking their first series win against the Australians in 22 years. The emphatic 2-1 series victory delighted fans and ended a decades-long drought.
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl first, a decision that quickly proved effective. Australia’s top order struggled against Pakistan’s sharp bowling attack, collapsing to a modest total of 140 runs in 31.5 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi led the charge, securing 3 wickets for 32 runs in his 8.5 overs, with crucial support from Naseem Shah, who claimed 3 wickets for 54 runs. Haris Rauf also chipped in with 2 wickets, tightening Pakistan’s grip on the game.
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Despite brief resistance from Australia’s Sean Abbott and Matt Short, Pakistan’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Australia’s efforts to build a solid innings faltered as key batters, including Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, were dismissed cheaply, leaving the visitors reeling at 88/6 by the 21st over. Adam Zampa and Abbott helped Australia cross the 100-run mark, but the team ultimately fell short of a challenging target.
In response, Pakistan’s chase was driven by a solid start from openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, who combined for a 70-run partnership. Ayub’s 42 off 52 balls anchored the innings, while Shafique added a steady 37 off 53. After the openers’ departure, Mohammad Rizwan took charge, scoring an unbeaten 30 off 27 balls to guide Pakistan to victory in just 26.5 overs, sealing the series win without further setbacks.
The Australian side, led by Josh Inglis, made significant changes to their lineup for this series decider, with five new players including Lance Morris, Cooper Connolly, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, and Spencer Johnson stepping in. Meanwhile, key players Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith were rested, prioritizing Australia’s upcoming Test series against India.
Historically, Australia has held a commanding record in ODIs against Pakistan, with 71 wins out of 110 encounters. However, Pakistan’s determined performance broke the hosts’ streak, making this series victory a memorable achievement for Rizwan and his team.
