**Australia Vs Pakistan 2nd ODI: Pakistan Wins**

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Post on Nov 08, 2024

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Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI: Pakistan Wins in a Thrilling Encounter

The second One Day International (ODI) between Australia and Pakistan in Lahore was a nail-biting encounter, with Pakistan emerging victorious in a thrilling finish. The match, played on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, saw Pakistan secure a crucial win, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.

Pakistan's Bowlers Shine in the First Innings

Australia, batting first, got off to a solid start with openers David Warner and Travis Head putting on a 74-run partnership. However, the introduction of Shaheen Afridi proved to be a turning point, as he dismissed both Warner and Head in quick succession.

The Australian middle order struggled to cope with the relentless pressure from the Pakistan bowlers, with only Marcus Stoinis providing some resistance. Ultimately, Australia was bowled out for 211 runs in 48.5 overs.

Shaheen Afridi was the pick of the bowlers, taking a career-best 5/40, while Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf chipped in with two wickets each.

Pakistan's Top Order Leads the Chase

Chasing a modest target of 212, Pakistan's top order got off to a flying start, with Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam putting on a century partnership.

Babar Azam continued his excellent form, scoring a classy 89 runs, while Imam-ul-Haq played a crucial knock of 71 runs.

Despite a mini-collapse in the middle overs, Pakistan remained in control throughout the chase. With a calm and composed approach, Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings, guiding Pakistan to victory with 16 balls to spare.

A Thrilling Finish

The match went down to the wire, with Australia needing just 10 runs off the last over to win. However, Pakistan's bowlers held their nerve, with Naseem Shah delivering a crucial final over to secure victory for his team.

Key Takeaways from the Match

• Pakistan's bowling attack proved to be the difference-maker in the match. Shaheen Afridi's exceptional performance with the ball was crucial to restricting Australia to a below-par total.
• Babar Azam's consistent run-scoring form is a major positive for Pakistan. His ability to anchor the innings and score at a brisk pace is invaluable to the team's success.
• Australia's middle order needs to improve its performance. The team struggled to build partnerships after losing their early wickets, which ultimately cost them the match.

The series now heads to Karachi for the final ODI, where Pakistan will be looking to seal the series win.

This thrilling encounter in Lahore was a testament to the competitive nature of international cricket. With both teams showcasing their strengths and weaknesses, the series has already delivered two captivating contests. The final ODI promises to be another exciting encounter, and fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the outcome.