Pakistan Crushes Australia by Nine Wickets in 2nd ODI to Level Series
Adelaide Oval: In a resounding victory, Pakistan defeated Australia by nine wickets in the second ODI at Adelaide Oval, levelling the three-match series 1-1. Mohammad Rizwan’s side chased down Australia’s modest total of 164 with 141 balls to spare, thanks to stellar performances from Haris Rauf with the ball and the opening partnership of Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub with the bat.
After being put into bat first, Australia’s batting lineup faltered, with Pakistan’s pace attack dismantling their top order. Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, removing openers Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short, who managed only 13 and 19 runs respectively. Shaheen finished with impressive figures of 3/26.
Steve Smith, Australia’s top scorer, contributed 35 off 48 balls but found little support from his teammates. Haris Rauf proved devastating with the ball, taking 5 wickets for 29 runs in eight overs. His fiery spell removed key players like Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, and captain Pat Cummins. Mohammad Hasnain and Naseem Shah chipped in as well, with Australia bowled out for 163 in 35 overs.
In response, Pakistan’s openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique forged a dominant 137-run stand, putting Pakistan in firm control of the chase. Saim, in just his second ODI, scored a blistering 82 off 71 balls, including six sixes, while Abdullah added an elegant half-century. Saim fell just 18 runs short of a maiden ODI century, but by then, Pakistan was within touching distance of victory.
This nine-wicket win is Pakistan’s first ODI victory over Australia on Australian soil since 2017, setting up an exciting series decider in the final match.
