After 22 Years in Australia Pakistan wins first ODI series
Pakistan delivered a commanding performance against Australia, winning the third ODI by eight wickets at Perth Stadium and securing their first ODI series victory in Australia since 2002. After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field and restricted Australia to just 140 runs in 31.5 overs, thanks to a stellar display of seam bowling from Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, who each took three wickets.
Australia’s decision to rest several key players for the match, prioritizing preparations for the upcoming Test series against India, backfired as they struggled to build partnerships. Josh Inglis, making his captaincy debut, managed only seven runs before being dismissed. The hosts faced further setbacks when Cooper Connolly retired hurt after being struck by a delivery from Mohammad Hasnain.
In response, Pakistan chased down the target comfortably, scoring 143 runs for the loss of just two wickets in 26.5 overs. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique provided a solid foundation with an 84-run opening partnership. Although Lance Morris took both openers’ wickets, Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam guided Pakistan to victory, finishing with 30 and 28 not out, respectively. Pakistan will now shift focus to a three-match T20 series starting in Brisbane on November 14.