In a landmark achievement for Pakistan cricket, the national team clinched a historic One-Day International (ODI) series victory over Australia, ending a 22-year wait for success in the format against the Kangaroos. The last time Pakistan defeated Australia in an ODI series was in 2002, under the leadership of Waqar Younis.
Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, congratulated the team for their exceptional performance, emphasizing the significance of the triumph.
"By defeating a strong team like Australia on their home ground, the players have made the nation proud," Naqvi said. "All the players and management deserve praise for this historic victory."
Naqvi also highlighted the all-round brilliance of the team, pointing out how the players outclassed Australia in all departments.
"The national cricket team's players outclassed Australia in fielding, bowling, and batting. Today's victory has brought joy to the faces of the entire nation."
Pakistan's bowlers were in full control from the start, restricting Australia to a meager 140 runs in their innings. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah led the charge with excellent spells, each taking three wickets, while Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain added crucial breakthroughs to dismiss Australia for a low total.
"The excellent bowling performances from Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf dismissed Australia for a low score," Naqvi said. "Their efforts were instrumental in the team’s victory."
Pakistan's chase of 141 was steady, with openers Abdullah Shafiq and Saim Ayub putting on an 84-run partnership. Shafiq contributed 37 off 53 balls, while Ayub made 42 off 52 deliveries. Despite Lance Morris breaking the stand by dismissing both openers, the experienced duo of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan guided Pakistan home with ease. Rizwan finished unbeaten on 30, while Babar supported with a solid 28. Pakistan wrapped up the chase inside the 27th over, winning by eight wickets.
"Winning by 8 wickets is the result of great teamwork," Naqvi added, praising the unity and discipline shown by the players.