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PAK vs AUS: Australia sets unwanted record in ODI series against Pakistan

In the series opener, Josh Inglis came close to a half-century, top-scoring for Australia with 49 runs

PAK vs AUS: Australia sets unwanted record in ODI series against Pakistan PHOTO: AFP

Australia’s ongoing three-match ODI series against Pakistan has been marked by an unexpected and unfortunate milestone: for the first time in ODI history, no Australian batter managed to score a fifty across the entire series. This record highlights Pakistan’s dominant bowling performance, which consistently kept Australia's lineup in check.

In the series opener, Josh Inglis came close to a half-century, top-scoring for Australia with 49 runs, while Steve Smith contributed 44. The second ODI saw another low top score for Australia, with Smith again leading but scoring only 35. In the third and final ODI, Sean Abbott managed 30 runs as Australia collapsed, bowled out for just 140.

Pakistan’s pace attack was relentless, led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, who each claimed three wickets. Haris Rauf added two more scalps, while Mohammad Hasnain chipped in with one, keeping Australia to a modest total. Sean Abbott’s 30 runs were the highest score in this decisive match, while Cooper Connolly retired hurt, adding to Australia’s challenges.

This victory will bring Pakistan closer to a historic ODI series win against Australia on their home soil, something last achieved in 2002. Australia narrowly won the series opener, but Pakistan’s dominant nine-wicket victory in the second ODI set the stage for a thrilling decider.