Pakistan are finally back in the three-match ODI series versus Australia after a humiliating defeat in the 1st ODI by 88 runs. Babar Azam and men managed to win the 2nd ODI by six wickets, sparing an over.
Since the hosts lost the 1st ODI, failing to trail a target of 314 runs, it was assumed to hunt for 349 runs would be even more challenging. However, Pakistan, known for their unpredictability, tackled the situation pretty well.
Khushdil Shah, in the middle order, looked for climax and boundaries, entirely taking the game in their favour, and Iftikhar Ahmed finished off in style with a four to Nathan Ellis.
Imam ul Haq’s second consecutive ODI century gave fans some thrilling moments to chant for. The game was even incited after another ton from the hosts’ side popped up. Babar’s attacking knock of 114 from 83 deliveries was probably one of his best ODI knocks.
It would not be wrong to say Pakistani batters did not disappoint and took revenge for their struggling bowlers in Pak vs Aus 2nd ODI. Fakhar Zaman, the opener, is neither without the credit since he put a solid start alongside Imam. Uneventually, Marcus Stoinis’ attacking delivery bowled him out.
One cannot claim that bowlers were ‘entirely’ out of form, however, many uneconomical overs cost them a hefty chase. They plucked eight Aussie batters, with the likes of Shaheen Shah Afridi fully in action. The youngster missed the first ODI but made sure to be in the next game’s limelight with a four-wicket haul.
Mohammad Wasim got two scalps for 56 runs delivering all his overs, whereas, leg-spinner Zahid Mehmood settled for one, conceding a surplus of 71 runs. Khushdil Shah was expensive either with an economy of 9.5 in six overs, however, managed a single wicket.
On the loss of four scalps, the men in green tackled the visitors’ bowlers, surpassing the target, closing the game on 352 in 49th over. Luckily, Azam and co are back in the series levelled by 1-1, with one match to go, scheduled for 2nd April at Gadaffi Stadium, Lahore.
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