Pakistan Clinch Three-Match ODI Series 2-1

Lahore, June 5 (HS): Pakistan staged an impressive comeback to defeat Australia by four wickets in the series-deciding One-Day International on Thursday night, securing the three-match ODI series 2-1. In a low-scoring contest, the hosts successfully chased down the target to seal the series victory.

After successfully defending 231 runs in the second ODI, Australian captain Josh Inglis opted to bat first in the decider, hoping his side could once again post a competitive total. However, Australia's batting line-up collapsed under pressure, and the visitors were bowled out for just 157 runs.

Australia suffered an early setback when Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissed Matthew Short in the opening stages of the innings. Captain Josh Inglis then attempted to stabilize the innings and emerged as the side’s top scorer with 65 runs off 71 deliveries. Apart from him, none of the Australian batters managed to play a substantial innings.

Inglis forged useful partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne and later Alex Carey, helping Australia approach the 100-run mark. However, once the skipper was dismissed, the innings unraveled rapidly.

Australia appeared to be in a comfortable position at 119/3, but a dramatic collapse followed as they lost their final seven wickets for just 37 additional runs and were eventually bowled out for 157.

For Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi was the standout performer with three wickets. The spin department also played a crucial role in restricting Australia. Abrar Ahmed delivered an economical spell, claiming 2 wickets for 19 runs in his 10 overs, while Shadab Khan also picked up two wickets.

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan began aggressively. Maaz Sadaqat scored briskly at the top of the order and ensured a healthy scoring rate in the early stages. However, Australia fought back by taking wickets at regular intervals, making the contest increasingly competitive.

Amid the pressure, Babar Azam produced a patient and composed innings, scoring 40 runs from 84 balls and laying the foundation for Pakistan’s successful chase.

For Australia, Matthew Kuhnemann bowled impressively and triggered a middle-order wobble by claiming three wickets, putting Pakistan under considerable pressure.

At one stage, Pakistan were struggling at 119/5, but Abdul Samad (18 not out) and Shadab Khan (29 not out) held their nerve. The unbeaten pair guided the hosts safely to victory in the 42nd over, ensuring Pakistan crossed the finish line with four wickets in hand.

Brief Scores:

Australia: 157 all out in 42 overs (Josh Inglis 65; Shaheen Shah Afridi 3/30, Abrar Ahmed 2/19, Shadab Khan 2/28)

Pakistan: 161/6 in 41.5 overs (Babar Azam 40, Shadab Khan 29 not out; Matthew Kuhnemann 3/38)

Result: Pakistan won by four wickets and secured the three-match ODI series 2-1.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar