LAHORE: Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi was delighted to lead the national team to a 2-1 ODI series win over Australia in the third and final match at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
Speaking after the match, Afridi lauded the collective team effort behind the historic victory, particularly the bowlers’ effective execution of their plans to adapt to the challenging batting conditions throughout the three-match series.
“It was a team effort throughout the series. It was very tough for the batsmen. We put in the effort and are happy with the win. We used the conditions to our advantage,” Shaheen said.
Reflecting on the pitch and Pakistan’s bowling strategy, the left-arm fast bowler noted that the pitches closely resembled those typically found in Australia, which allowed the pacers to make a strong impact.
Despite some solid partnerships from the visitors during the series, he praised the bowling unit for maintaining constant pressure through dot balls and limiting Australia’s scoring chances.
“When you go to Australia, you get conditions that suit the fast bowlers. They had two partnerships in the series but we focused on the dot balls and the bowlers executed the plans well. I will continue to give my best for the team,” he added.
He reflected on his contribution, emphasized his commitment to continue playing his role and supported the team’s overall objectives.
“I am trying to do my best for the betterment of the team. I hope to continue in the future as well,” he said with a smile.
With this victory, Pakistan won their third consecutive ODI series against Australia. The Men in Green first won 2-1 at home in 2022, repeating the same scoreline in Australia in 2025.
Shaheen Shah Afridi and the spin duo bowled out Australia for 157 all out in 42 overs as Pakistan clinched the series with a hard-fought win against a low score.
Australian captain Josh Inglis anchored the innings with a 71-ball 65 with 8 fours and a six. Marnus Labusagne and Alex Carey scored 19 each.
Shaheen led Pakistan’s attack with figures of 3/30 from eight overs. Abrar Ahmed and Shatab Khan took 2 wickets each and Haris Rauf took one wicket.
In response, Pakistan team lost 6 wickets in 41.5 overs and reached the target. Abdul Samad and Shatab Khan jointly guided the visitors home.
Although Babar Azam endured a relatively slow innings, he top scored for Pakistan with 40 off 84 balls including 3 fours. Mas Sadaq scored 27 runs off 26 balls with 5 fours.
Samad remained unbeaten on 18 off 30 balls while Shatab scored 29 off 42 balls with 2 fours.
Matthew Kuhneman was Australia’s best bowler, returning 3/38 from his 10 overs. Nathan Ellis, Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw took one wicket each.