Pakistan has etched its name in the annals of cricket history by securing a monumental 2-1 series victory against Australia. In the third and final One Day International (ODI) held in Lahore on June 4, the Pakistani team displayed exceptional skill and composure to defeat the visitors by 4 wickets. This victory isn't just a series win but a record-breaking achievement that places Pakistan at the pinnacle of Asian cricket. By winning this series, Pakistan has become the first Asian team ever to register three consecutive ODI series wins against Australia, while globally, they're now only the second team to achieve this remarkable feat, following in the footsteps of South Africa.
The Decisive Third ODI in Lahore
The final match of the series saw Australia setting a modest target for the hosts. Batting first, the Australian side struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack and was eventually bundled out for 157 runs in 42 overs. 5 overs, losing 6 wickets in the process. The chase was anchored by captain Babar Azam, who top-scored for his side with a composed 40 runs. Shadab Khan, coming in at number 8, played a crucial unbeaten knock of 29 runs to ensure there were no further hiccups. Opening batsman Maaz Sadaqat also contributed a vital 27 runs at the top of the order. Despite a spirited bowling performance from Australia's Matt Kuhnemann, who claimed 3 wickets, Pakistan managed to cross the line with 49 balls to spare.
Australia's Batting Collapse
Earlier in the day, Australia's decision to bat first didn't yield the desired results. The Pakistani bowlers were in top form, consistently picking up wickets and keeping the scoring rate under control. Josh Inglis was the lone warrior for the Australian team, scoring a gritty 65 runs, but he lacked support from the other end. The rest of the Australian batting lineup crumbled under the pressure exerted by the Pakistani pace and spin duo. Shaheen Shah Afridi led the bowling charts for Pakistan, taking 3 wickets and dismantling the Australian top and middle order. He was well-supported by Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan, both of whom picked up 2 wickets each, ensuring Australia was restricted to a low total of 157.
A Historic Hat-trick of Series Wins
This series victory marks the third consecutive time Pakistan has come out on top against Australia in an ODI series. The streak began in 2022 when Pakistan defeated Australia 2-1 in a home series. They followed this up with another 2-1 victory during their tour of Australia in 2024. The current 2-1 win in 2024 further solidifies Pakistan's dominance over the Australians in recent years. Achieving three back-to-back series wins against a powerhouse like Australia is a testament to the growth and consistency of the Pakistani ODI squad. As the first Asian team to reach this milestone, Pakistan has set a new benchmark in international cricket, joining South Africa as the only two nations to have ever dominated Australia in this specific manner over three consecutive series.