Post by : Shakul

Pakistan secured a convincing four-wicket victory over Australia in the third and final One Day International in Lahore, sealing the three-match series 2-1. The hosts produced a disciplined bowling display followed by a composed chase to wrap up the series in front of their home crowd.

After winning the toss, Australia chose to bat first but struggled to build lasting partnerships. Captain Josh Inglis stood out with a determined knock of 65 runs from 71 deliveries, guiding his side to 119 for 3 and appearing to set the foundation for a competitive total.

However, Pakistan's bowlers turned the game around dramatically once Inglis departed. Australia suffered a stunning collapse, losing their final seven wickets for just 38 runs. The innings ended at 157 in 42 overs, leaving the visitors with a below-par total on a pitch that increasingly favored spin bowling.

Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi played a crucial role in the breakthrough phase, removing both Australian openers and all-rounder Cameron Green. Pakistan’s spin attack then tightened its grip on the match, dismantling the remaining batting lineup and preventing any recovery.

Chasing 158 for victory, Pakistan approached the target with patience and control. Former captain Babar Azam anchored the innings with a steady 40 runs from 84 balls, ensuring stability during the chase. Although left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann claimed three wickets, Australia lacked enough runs on the board to seriously challenge the hosts.

Pakistan eventually reached the target with four wickets in hand and 49 balls remaining. The victory highlighted the team's balanced performance with both bat and ball and completed a successful turnaround after Australia had leveled the series in the second ODI.

The series began with Pakistan registering a five-wicket win in Rawalpindi before Australia responded with a 41-run victory in Lahore. The deciding match ultimately belonged to Pakistan, whose bowlers delivered under pressure to secure another notable series triumph against a major cricketing nation.

Australia will now shift focus to their upcoming tour of Bangladesh, where they are scheduled to play three ODIs followed by a three-match T20 International series. Pakistan, meanwhile, will take confidence from a strong all-round performance that showcased the depth and resilience of the squad.

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