PERTH – A historic moment for Pakistani cricket, as the national team defeated Australia in the third and final ODI of their series by eight wickets, clinching a remarkable first series win against the Australians in 22 years.
Rizwan led squad completed commanding victory in third ODI against Australia, chasing down modest target of 141 runs to secure a historic series win. The triumph, which saw Pakistan seal the series 2-1, marked their first ODI series victory over Australia in 22 years, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Kangaroos landed in trouble due to Pakistan’s sharp bowling attack, as they were bowled out for just 140 runs in 31.5 overs. Australian top order struggled against Pakistan’s pacers, with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah leading the charge.
Afridi got 3 wickets for 32 runs in his 8.5 overs, providing the crucial breakthroughs at key moments. Naseem Shah supported him well with 3 wickets for 54 runs in 9 overs, while Haris Rauf chipped in with 2 scalps.
Australia’s top scorers were Sean Abbott and Matt Short, but their efforts were in vain as visitors bowlers kept pressure on. Adam Zampa and Marcus Stoinis (11 off 3) provided some resistance, but the target was too low to challenge Pakistan’s batting strength.
Pakistan’s chase was built on steady partnerships and calm heads. Saim Ayub (42 off 52) and Abdullah Shafique (37 off 53) laid a solid foundation, combining for a 70-run partnership. Ayub’s knock was particularly vital as he controlled the tempo of the chase, punishing loose deliveries while maintaining composure in the face of Australia’s attack.
Mohammad Rizwan (30* off 27) finished off the chase with ease, guiding Pakistan to the target in just 26.5 overs. Despite losing openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, Rizwan’s maturity at the crease ensured the win was secured without further hiccups.
Pakistan’s bowlers displayed absolute skill and discipline to leave Australia all out at 140 in series decider ODI game. Australia’s top order faltered under intense pressure from a fired-up Pakistani bowling attack.
Australia’s hopes of a strong start were dashed early when opening batsman Matt Short returned on 22, while Jake Fraser-McGurkm, Aaron Hardie, and Josh Inglis could not make 50 together.
Pakistan won the toss, and decided to field first with focus to thump Australia in series decider match on Sunday at Optus Stadium.
Skipper Mohammad Rizwan confirmed that there were no changes to his team, and the side is looking to continue the momentum from their stunning victory in the second ODI, where they triumphed in a one-sided contest at Adelaide Oval. “The pitch looks similar to the last one, so we’ll bowl first,” Rizwan said.
In major reshuffle, the hosts made five changes to their playing XI for today’s match. Lance Morris, Cooper Connolly, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, and Spencer Johnson have been included in the squad, while key players such as Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith have been rested in preparation for Australia’s upcoming Test series against India later this month.
The two teams have faced each other 110 times in ODIs, with Australia holding a commanding 71-35 advantage. The hosts also have a strong record at home, winning 38 out of 58 ODIs, while Pakistan has claimed just 18 victories on Australian soil.
Pakistan vs Australia Squad
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, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis (c, wk), Cooper Connolly, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Sean Abbott, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Lance Morris.
With both teams eager to claim the series win, today’s match promises to be a thrilling contest
