Pakistan clinched a comfortable win over Australia in the second ODI, leveling the three-match series 1-1. Haris Rauf’s remarkable five-wicket haul and solid performances from Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique secured a dominant chase of the modest 164-run target.
In the first innings, Haris Rauf dismantled Australia’s lineup with an impressive 5 for 29. His pinpoint accuracy devastated the hosts, particularly in the middle order. Among his notable dismissals was Marnus Labuschagne, who fell to a top-quality delivery that highlighted Rauf’s skill. Rauf’s relentless pace and precision have left Australia struggling throughout the series, with his combined figures standing at an impressive 17-0-96-8.
Rizwan Equals Record for Most ODI Dismissals
Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan played a crucial role behind the stumps, contributing to four of Rauf’s wickets through catches. This performance equaled the record for most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in an ODI (six). Although Rizwan missed a late chance to break this record, his presence was pivotal in stifling Australia’s attempts to build a competitive score.
Australia Struggles Against Pakistani Pace
Australia’s batting lineup faltered early, with their openers Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk failing to capitalize on their starts. Fraser-McGurk hit three boundaries in the second over, but Shaheen Shah Afridi pinned him lbw soon after. Short also struggled, eventually departing for 8 after cutting a wide delivery to cover, where Babar Azam completed a sharp catch.
Despite a steady 35-run knock from Steven Smith, Australia failed to maintain partnerships. Smith, who survived a dropped catch and a near lbw dismissal, eventually fell to Mohammad Hasnain. As the top scorer, Smith’s efforts weren’t enough to lift Australia from a total of 163, as they lost wickets at regular intervals.
Rauf’s Destructive Spell Closes Out Australia
Rauf’s skillful deliveries dismissed key Australian players, including Josh Inglis, Labuschagne, and Aaron Hardie. Glenn Maxwell’s attempt to counterattack fell short when he dragged a pull shot onto his stumps, and Pat Cummins’s top edge handed Rauf his fifth wicket. Despite a late effort from Adam Zampa, who hit only the second six of his ODI career, Shaheen Shah Afridi ended the innings with a quick dismissal, all out at 163.
In response, Pakistan’s opening pair of Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique provided a solid foundation. Ayub scored a steady 82*, and Shafique added an unbeaten 64, guiding Pakistan to the target with ease. Pakistan lost only one wicket during the chase, showing a confident approach.
PAK vs AUS: Rauf’s Fifer Restricts Australia, Pakistan Chases Target of 164
Babar Azam Finishes with a Six
Captain Babar Azam sealed the victory with a stylish six, setting up an exciting series decider in Perth on November 10. The team’s disciplined approach both in bowling and batting helped Pakistan secure this win, bolstering their momentum heading into the final match.
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