LAHORE: Pakistan defeated Australia in the final One Day International (ODI) to clinch the three-match series 2-1, marking their third consecutive ODI series win against the Aussies.
Batting first, the Australian lineup crumbled for a mere 157 runs in their allotted overs.
Josh Inglis was the lone fighter for the visitors, top-scoring with 65 runs, as seven Australian batters failed to even enter double figures.
Pakistan’s bowling attack was spear-headed by captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, who ripped through the lineup with three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan claimed two wickets apiece.
In reply, Pakistan chased down the 158-run target in 42 overs for the loss of six wickets.
Babar Azam anchored the innings with 40 runs, supported by Maaz Sadaqat’s 27 and an unbeaten 29 from Shadab Khan.
Abdul Samad also remained notary with a crucial 18 not out to cross the finish line.
Earlier in the series, Pakistan won the first ODI by five wickets, while Australia bounced back in the second match to win by 41 runs.
This historic series win, following Pakistan’s previous ODI series triumphs against Australia in 2021 and 2024, has served as a breath of fresh air for cricket fans back home, especially coming on the heels of Team Green’s consecutive Test series whitewashes against Bangladesh.
