Pakistan has created history in Australia due to the strong performance of fast bowlers. In a decisive third ODI in Perth, Pakistan’s fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi led their team to a historic victory over Australia, securing an 8-wicket win and claiming the series 2-1. Pakistan won an ODI series on Australian soil for the first time in 22 years, thanks to a fierce bowling attack that dismantled the Australian batting line-up, and collapsed them to just 140 runs.
Top-Order Collapse Leaves Australia Reeling
Opting to bowl first, Pakistan quickly found success. Opener Jack Fraser McGurk was dismissed by Naseem Shah after scoring only 7 runs. Aaron Hardy, who batted at number three, followed soon after, caught out by Shaheen Afridi for 12 runs. With two wickets down for 36, Australia’s captain Josh Inglis came to the crease but failed to make an impact, scoring only 7 before being bowled out by Naseem.
Middle and Lower Order Fails to Resist Pakistani Attack
Despite being set at the crease, Matthew Short was dismissed by Haris Rauf after scoring 22 runs. Hopes were pinned on Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell to rescue the innings, but both struggled against Pakistan’s bowlers. Stoinis managed only 8 runs, while Maxwell was dismissed for a duck. Sean Abbott top-scored for Australia with a modest 30 runs, as the team struggled to form meaningful partnerships.
Pakistan’s Batsmen Chase Target with Ease
Chasing 141, Pakistan’s batsmen took control. Sam Ayub scored 42, Abdullah Shafiq contributed 37, while Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 28 and 30, respectively. Pakistan reached the target comfortably in just 26.5 overs, sealing the series.
Smith Congratulates Pakistani Batters After Historic Win
After Pakistan’s historic series win against Australia, legendary Australian batter Steve Smith congratulated Babar Azam and the entire Pakistani team. The video of Smith’s gesture went viral on social media within seconds.
Pak Vs Aus Winning Movement 🙌 pic.twitter.com/qiFrBRpkf6
— Naseem Shah (@Naseem71Shah) November 10, 2024
In the previous ODI, Pakistani captain Mohammad Rizwan had been tricked by Australian spinner Adam Zampa with a controversial “DRS Trick.” Adding to the tension, the Australian players had engaged in sledging after being whitewashed by Bangladesh on their home soil. This fueled Pakistan’s determination to secure a victory, making this win especially meaningful for the “Green Army.”
Following their victory, the Pakistani cricketers celebrated, with Smith graciously extending his congratulations, acknowledging their hard-fought success.
A Historic Series Win
Pakistan’s remarkable victory marks a significant achievement, as they claim their first ODI series win in Australia in over two decades.