Lahore Decider Win: Pakistan Seal ODI Series Against Australia
Pakistan celebrated a Lahore Decider Win after defeating Australia by four wickets in the third and final ODI at Gaddafi Stadium. As a result, the home side secured the three-match contest 2-1. The victory also marked Pakistan’s third straight one-day series success against the world champions. Pakistan chased 158 and looked comfortable for most of the innings. However, a sudden collapse left the team at 112-6. Australia sensed a comeback and increased the pressure. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Samad responded with confidence. Their unbeaten 49-run stand guided the hosts across the finish line. Shadab scored 29 not out from 42 balls, while Samad added an unbeaten 18 from 30 deliveries. Earlier, Pakistan lost Sahibzada Farhan cheaply. Maaz Sadaqat played positively and made 27 runs. In addition, Babar Azam anchored the chase with a patient 40. Regular wickets, however, prevented the batting unit from taking full control.
Shaheen Leads Strong Bowling Display
Australia struggled to build momentum after captain Josh Inglis chose to bat first. Shaheen Afridi struck with the second ball of the match and removed Matthew Short for a duck. Therefore, the visitors found themselves under pressure from the start. Inglis fought back with a well-made 65 from 71 balls. He also shared useful partnerships with Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey. Even so, Pakistan’s bowlers remained disciplined throughout the innings. The attack kept the scoring rate in check and forced mistakes. As a result, Australia failed to post a challenging total. Pakistan’s bowlers and middle-order batters then combined to complete a memorable victory. The result delighted supporters in Lahore and highlighted the team’s growing consistency. For example, the side showed resilience under pressure and finished the series on a high note.
