Haris, openers lead Pakistan to historic ODI victory over Australia

In Adelaide, Pakistan claimed their first ODI victory over Australia on Australian soil since 2017, thanks to a standout performance by Haris Rauf and strong contributions from openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique. Pakistan chased down a modest 164-run target with ease, losing only one wicket and reaching the target with 141 balls remaining, leveling the three-match series.

Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique gave Pakistan a powerful start, building a commanding 137-run partnership. Saim led the charge with an aggressive 82 off 71 balls, hitting five fours and six sixes. He fell just 18 runs short of his maiden century, but his impressive knock laid the foundation for a comfortable win. Abdullah Shafique carried his bat through, finishing unbeaten on 64 from 69 balls, which included four fours and three sixes. Babar Azam joined him toward the end, adding a composed 15 not out. Adam Zampa took Australia’s only wicket in the innings.

Earlier, after being put to bat first, Australia’s lineup struggled against a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack, ultimately being bowled out for 163 in 35 overs. Openers Jake Fraser-McGurk (13) and Matthew Short (19) couldn’t establish a solid foundation, with both falling to Shaheen Shah Afridi, who recorded figures of 3/26.

Steve Smith and Josh Inglis tried to stabilize the innings with a 38-run stand for the third wicket, but Haris Rauf broke through by getting Inglis (18) caught behind. He quickly followed this up by dismissing Marnus Labuschagne (6) in his next over. Mohammad Hasnain further troubled the hosts, claiming the wicket of a well-set Smith, who top-scored for Australia with a fighting 35 off 48 balls, hitting six boundaries, including a six.

With momentum on his side, Haris Rauf went on to claim two more wickets, dismissing Aaron Hardie (13) and Glenn Maxwell (16) in quick succession. He rounded off his outstanding performance with his fifth wicket, removing Australian captain Pat Cummins (13) to achieve a remarkable 5/29 in eight overs. Adam Zampa added a quick 18 runs toward the end before being bowled by Shaheen in the 35th over. Naseem Shah picked up two wickets, while Hasnain took one.

Pakistan’s dominant nine-wicket win set up a thrilling series finale, with the last ODI scheduled to be held at Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday.