In a thrilling showdown on Sunday, Pakistan delivered a spectacular performance to defeat Australia in the third and final One Day International (ODI), marking their first series win on Australian soil in 22 years. This victory didn’t just end a long drought; it also underscored Pakistan’s resurgence in ODI cricket as the team claimed the series 2-1 in dominant fashion.
Playing with fierce intent and unwavering precision, Pakistan’s unchanged squad bowled out Australia for just 140 runs in 31.5 overs, making it clear that the Green Shirts were on a mission. They chased down the modest target with ease, wrapping it up at 143-2 in just 26.5 overs. The triumph not only showcased Pakistan’s bowling prowess but also highlighted their evolving depth in both pace and batting.
Pakistan’s Bowling Attack: Swing, Pace, and Power
Pakistan’s star fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah set the tone early on, unleashing a fiery spell that sent Australia’s top order tumbling. Each picked up three wickets, demonstrating a perfect blend of swing and pace that left the Australian batters struggling. Early dismissals included Australia’s Jake Fraser-McGurk and Aaron Hardie, who fell cheaply in the opening powerplay, setting Australia on a rocky path.
Newly-appointed Australian captain Josh Inglis faced his own share of difficulties in his debut as skipper. After scoring a mere seven runs, he mistimed a shot off Naseem’s delivery and was caught by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. The early departure of key players left Australia on shaky ground, with their lineup reeling at 79-5.
As if that wasn’t enough, young Cooper Connolly’s injury added to Australia’s woes. A sharp delivery from Mohammad Hasnain struck Connolly’s left hand, forcing him to retire hurt and leave for a medical checkup. Haris Rauf joined the party soon after, dismissing Australia’s experienced batter Glenn Maxwell for a duck, tightening Pakistan’s grip on the game. Rauf ended the day with figures of 2-24, making him a standout in the bowling lineup.
With no spin options needed, Pakistan’s seamers relentlessly kept the pressure on, swiftly cleaning up Australia’s lower order. Sean Abbott managed to top-score for Australia with a gritty 30 runs, but it was too little to prevent a modest total.
Chasing Down the Win with Style
Chasing a target of 141, Pakistan’s opening batsmen Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique stepped up to the crease with a winning mindset. Both were coming off strong performances and continued their momentum, putting on an 84-run partnership that nearly sealed the win single-handedly. Saim Ayub’s 42 and Abdullah Shafique’s 37 added flair and confidence to Pakistan’s chase.
Australia’s fast bowler Lance Morris briefly brought excitement to the Perth crowd by dismissing both set batsmen in the 18th over. However, the victory was never in question. Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s captain, finished with an unbeaten 30, while Babar Azam calmly supported him with a steady 28 not out to bring home the win.
Rizwan’s Pride and Australia’s Regrets
Leading Pakistan for the first time in an ODI series, Mohammad Rizwan was visibly moved by the historic win. Speaking to the press, he shared, “This is a very special moment for me. It is not easy to beat Australia in Australia.” Rizwan praised Pakistan’s fast bowlers for their exceptional performances and applauded openers Saim and Abdullah for providing solid starts in the last two matches.
On the other side, Australian captain Josh Inglis expressed disappointment, acknowledging his team’s shortcomings. “We have been completely outclassed in the series against Pakistan,” he said, adding that Australia’s batters failed to put up the scores needed in both the second and third ODIs.
Player of the Series and New Heroes
Pakistan’s Haris Rauf, who was a force to be reckoned with throughout the series, was awarded Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his impressive 10-wicket haul over three games. Rauf attributed his success to the meticulous planning and teamwork of the Pakistani bowling squad.
Another rising star, Saim Ayub, finished as the series’ top run-scorer with 125 runs. His performances, including a solid 82 in the second ODI and a stylish 42 in the third, signal a promising future for Pakistan’s top order.
A Series to Remember
This series victory is more than just a win; it’s a statement. After 22 years of waiting, Pakistan’s Green Shirts have finally clinched an ODI series on Australian soil. This achievement not only builds confidence but also sets the stage for Pakistan’s continued rise in international cricket. As the team prepares for future challenges, this historic win will remain a milestone moment for the players, fans, and country alike.
With the cricketing world watching, Pakistan has made it clear: they’re here to compete, and they’re here to win.
