Australia bounced back strongly in the second ODI against Pakistan, securing a crucial victory at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, to level the three match series at 1-1. Defending a target of 232 runs, the visitors produced a disciplined bowling performance to bowl Pakistan out for 190 runs in 44 overs.
Pakistan’s chase got off to the worst possible start as openers Maaz Sadaqat and Sahibzada Farhan were dismissed early, leaving the hosts under pressure. Babar Azam attempted to steady the innings with a few attacking strokes but was unable to convert his start into a big score. Pakistan continued losing wickets at regular intervals, making the chase increasingly difficult.
Amid the collapse, Ghazi Ghori fought hard with a valuable 37 runs before spinner Adam Zampa removed him. The biggest resistance came from Shadab Khan, who played a determined knock of 71 runs. He shared an important partnership with Arafat Minhas, who contributed 33 runs, helping Pakistan recover briefly after being reduced to 78 for 6.
However, Australia’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings. Nathan Ellis was the standout performer, claiming four wickets for 33 runs, while Matthew Short picked up three wickets. Their efforts ensured Pakistan never gained momentum during the chase.
Earlier, Australia posted 231 for 9 after being invited to bat first by Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. The visitors lost an early wicket but recovered through valuable half centuries from Josh Inglis and Cameron Green. Inglis scored 51 runs while Green anchored the innings with 53. Oliver Peake added useful late runs to push Australia beyond the 230 mark.
For Pakistan, Shaheen led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed, Arafat Minhas, and Haris Rauf claimed two wickets each.
With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams will head into the third ODI with everything to play for as they battle for the series trophy.
