Pakistan Creates History by Defeating Australia in ODI Series at Home

Macy Graham

Nov 10, 2024

In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, Pakistan has created history by defeating Australia in a one-day international (ODI) series on their home ground for the first time in 22 years. The series, which was tied at 1-1 going into the final match, saw the hosts triumph in a dominant fashion, proving their strength on home turf.

The Decisive ODI Match

The final ODI between Pakistan and Australia was a thrilling contest, which saw the host team chasing down a modest total set by Australia. Pakistan's bowlers were in spectacular form, restricting Australia to just 140 runs in 31.5 overs. Pakistan then reached the target of 141 runs with ease in the 27th over, securing a commanding victory.

Pakistan's Dominant Performance

Pakistan’s chase was powered by solid performances from their top order. Opener Abdullah Shafiq contributed 37 runs, while Saeem Ayub top-scored with 42 runs before being dismissed by Lance Morris. Captain Mohammad Rizwan and Pakistan’s batting maestro Babar Azam remained unbeaten, scoring 30 and 28 runs respectively, to guide the team home. The Pakistani bowlers, led by Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi, had laid the foundation for victory by demolishing the Australian lineup earlier in the day.

Australian Struggles in the Decider

Australia, after being asked to bat first, struggled against Pakistan’s relentless bowling attack. The visitors were bowled out for just 140 runs, with several key players failing to make significant contributions. Sean Abbott was the top scorer for Australia, with 30 runs, while Jack Fraser McGurk could only manage 7 runs. The Australian middle-order collapsed under pressure, with captain Josh Inglis contributing a mere 7 runs, and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis only managing 8.

The Australian side also suffered an injury scare, as Cooper Connolly was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the hand by a delivery from Mohammad Hasnain.

Key Performances and Wickets

Pakistan’s bowlers were exceptional throughout the match. Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi were the stars of the day, both picking up 3 wickets each. Haris Rauf contributed with 2 wickets, while Mohammad Hasnain took 1 wicket. The Australian batsmen had no answer to the pace and accuracy of the Pakistani bowling attack.

In particular, Haris Rauf’s dismissal of Glenn Maxwell marked the third consecutive match in which the Australian all-rounder fell to him, ending his innings for a duck.

Pakistan's Path to Victory

The match was a crucial decider in the 3-match series. Going into the final game, both teams had won one match each, making the series perfectly poised at 1-1. In the first match, Pakistan was narrowly defeated by two wickets, but in the second match, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, restricting Australia to a meager total. The win in the final ODI thus not only secured the series but also ended Pakistan's 22-year wait for an ODI series victory over Australia on home soil.

FAQs

Q1: How long has it been since Pakistan last defeated Australia in an ODI series at home?

A1: It has been 22 years since Pakistan last won an ODI series against Australia at home, with the last victory coming in 2002.

Q2: Who were the top performers for Pakistan in the final ODI?

A2: Saeem Ayub scored 42 runs, while Abdullah Shafiq contributed 37 runs. Captain Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam remained unbeaten, scoring 30 and 28 runs respectively. Pakistan's bowlers, especially Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi, played a key role in the victory.

Q3: How many wickets did Pakistan’s bowlers take in the final ODI?

A3: Pakistan’s bowlers took 9 wickets in total, with Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi taking 3 wickets each, Haris Rauf picking up 2 wickets, and Mohammad Hasnain taking 1 wicket.

Q4: What was the final score in the decisive ODI?

A4: Australia was bowled out for 140 runs in 31.5 overs, and Pakistan successfully chased down the target of 141 runs in just 27 overs.

Q5: How did Australia perform in the series?

A5: Australia won the first match of the series, while Pakistan dominated the second. In the decider, Australia struggled with the bat, and Pakistan's bowlers were clinical in their execution.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s victory in the final ODI marks a historic moment for the team, ending a 22-year drought of series wins against Australia on home soil. The comprehensive nature of the win, with outstanding performances from both the bowlers and the batters, serves as a testament to Pakistan’s growing strength in international cricket. This triumph is a significant milestone for the team, and it will surely inspire confidence as they move forward in the world of cricket. With a balanced team and remarkable performances from the likes of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan is proving itself as a force to be reckoned with in world cricket.

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