Pakistan secured the third and final One Day International against Australia at Gaddafi Stadium, sealing the series 2-1.
Australia, batting first, were dismissed for 157 in 42 overs after a collapse triggered by early strikes. Shaheen Shah Afridi removed Matthew Short for nought and later accounted for Josh Inglis and Cameron Green, while Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed also chipped in with key wickets. Australia’s innings was anchored by Josh Inglis, who made 65, but the visitors lost wickets at regular intervals and failed to build partnerships of substance.
Pakistan’s bowlers maintained control through the middle overs. Abrar Ahmed’s spin proved decisive as he removed Matt Renshaw and Cooper Connolly. Shadab Khan added pressure late in the innings with two wickets, while Australia’s lower order folded short of any recovery.
In reply, Pakistan chased 158, reaching 161 for 6 in 41.5 overs. Early wickets fell, including Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat, but Babar Azam steadied the innings with 40. Shadab Khan then guided the chase with an unbeaten 29, supported by Abdul Samad, as Pakistan completed the target with four wickets in hand. Matthew Kuhnemann claimed three wickets for Australia, while Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa provided support, but the total proved insufficient.
Pakistan’s all-round performance ensured victory in the match and the series on home soil.
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