Sun Nov 10 14:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Clinches Historic ODI Series Win in Australia, Rizwan Makes History

Perth, Australia – Pakistan has achieved a historic victory, clinching the ODI series against Australia 2-1 in Perth on Sunday. This victory marks the second time a Pakistan captain has triumphed in a bilateral series on Australian soil, a feat last achieved by Waqar Younis in 2002. Mohammad Rizwan, the current captain, now joins an exclusive club of captains including Virat Kohli (India, 2019) and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka, 2010) to have conquered the Aussies in their own backyard.

The series win comes amidst a turbulent period for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with Babar Azam stepping down as white-ball captain and head coach Gary Kirsten resigning. Despite the upheaval, Rizwan led the team with confidence, guiding them to a turnaround after a narrow loss in the first ODI.

Pakistan’s bowling attack proved the difference, with the trio of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah claiming a combined 17 wickets in the second and third ODIs. The Australian batsmen struggled against the pace, failing to reach 200 runs in both matches. In the final ODI, Australia was bowled out for a paltry 140 runs, with only Matthew Short and Aaron Hardie offering any resistance.

Pakistan’s batting order then cruised to victory, with Saim Ayub (42) and Abdullah Shafique (37) providing a solid foundation. The win came with a comfortable 139 balls to spare.

Australia was missing several key players, including captain Pat Cummins, Steven Smith, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Marnus Labuschagne, who are preparing for the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy against India. However, Pakistan’s dominant performance showcased their strength and resilience, marking a significant milestone for the team.

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