**Pakistan Crushes Australia In Second ODI**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 08, 2024

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Pakistan Crushes Australia in Second ODI, Leveling the Series

Pakistan delivered a dominant performance in the second One Day International (ODI) against Australia, crushing the visitors by six wickets and leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The thrilling encounter took place on Friday, March 31st, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

A Crushing Defeat for Australia

Australia, who won the first ODI, were completely outplayed in the second match. They were bundled out for a paltry 168 runs in 48.1 overs, a score that was never going to be enough on a batting-friendly pitch. Pakistan's bowlers were on fire, with Shaheen Afridi taking a career-best 5-40 and Naseem Shah picking up 3-36.

Steve Smith (59) was the only Australian batter to offer any resistance, but he received little support from his teammates. The rest of the batting order crumbled under pressure, failing to capitalize on the good batting conditions.

Pakistan's Dominant Chase

In reply, Pakistan chased down the target with ease, reaching 171/4 in 39.2 overs. Imam-ul-Haq (71) and Babar Azam (59) put on a solid opening stand of 102 runs to set the tone for the chase. Mohammad Rizwan (21) and Iftikhar Ahmed (20) provided the finishing touches as Pakistan eased to victory.

A Crucial Win for Pakistan

This win was crucial for Pakistan, as it kept their hopes alive in the series. The third and final ODI will now be a decider, with both teams looking to clinch the series.

Key Takeaways from the Match

• Shaheen Afridi's brilliance: Afridi was simply unplayable, his pace and swing proving too much for the Australian batters. His five-wicket haul was a key factor in Australia's collapse.
• Pakistan's batting depth: The Pakistan batting order showed great depth, with all the top-order batsmen contributing significantly to the chase.
• Australia's batting woes: The Australian batting looked fragile throughout the innings, failing to adapt to the conditions and the Pakistan bowling attack.

What's Next?

The third and final ODI will be played on Sunday, April 2nd, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Both teams will be looking to win the series, and the match promises to be another exciting encounter.

This win for Pakistan shows their growing strength in the ODI format. With the World Cup just around the corner, this series victory will be a huge confidence booster for the team.