Pakistan secured a hard-fought victory over Australia in the deciding ODI, successfully chasing down a modest target of 158 to clinch the series. Despite a late scare from Australia’s bowlers, Pakistan held their nerve, with Babar Azam playing a crucial anchoring role and Shadab Khan providing the finishing touches.
After winning the toss, Australian captain Josh Inglis chose to bat first, hoping his side could replicate their successful defense from the previous match. However, Australia’s batting lineup struggled against a disciplined Pakistan attack and was bowled out for just 157 runs.
Inglis was the standout performer for the visitors, scoring a composed 65 from 71 deliveries. He built useful partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne and Matthew Short to guide Australia past the 100-run mark. However, once Inglis departed, Australia’s innings unraveled dramatically. The team collapsed from 119 for 3 to 157 all out, losing their final seven wickets for only 38 runs.
Pakistan’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout the innings. Shaheen Afridi led the charge with three wickets, including the key dismissal of Inglis. Spinner Abrar Ahmed was exceptionally economical, conceding just 19 runs in his 10 overs while claiming two important wickets. Shadab Khan also played a valuable role with figures of 2 for 28.
Chasing a relatively small target, Pakistan began aggressively through opener Maaz Sadaqat, who struck several early boundaries during his quick-fire 27. However, Australia fought back through Nathan Ellis and later Matthew Kuhnemann, who repeatedly broke partnerships and kept the contest alive.
Babar Azam, though not at his most fluent, delivered a captain’s knock when it mattered most. His patient 40 off 84 balls helped stabilize the innings and absorb the pressure created by Australia’s bowlers. Kuhnemann’s impressive spell ensured the chase was far from straightforward, but Pakistan’s lower order remained calm in the closing stages.
Shadab Khan eventually helped steer the hosts across the finish line, sealing a memorable win and securing the series. The victory highlighted Pakistan’s balanced performance, combining disciplined bowling with a composed chase under pressure.
