Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar hailed Pakistan’s ODI series win over Australia. He was impressed with the comprehensive win and praised speedsters Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi for their bowling efforts. The Mohammad Rizwan-led side created history by clinching a 3-match ODI series 2-1 vs Australia. This was Pakistan’s first-ever ODI series win on Australian soil after 22 years. Akhtar recalled his time when Pakistan last won the series in 2002 and appreciated Rizwan for the attitude change he brought within the team.
“Outstanding win. After 22 years, we won against Australia. In 2002, I remember I was there. We had won a series in Gabba, and it took us 22 years for the players to win the series. And they did an amazing job. They played really well. There was an attitude change. Rizwan changed the attitude. Naseem, Haris, Shaheen. All of them played really well and at the same time they did a comprehensively good job,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.
Pakistan team create history
In a remarkable turnaround, Pakistan clinched a rare ODI series victory in Australia after a dominant eight-wicket win at Perth’s Optus Stadium. The visitors displayed resilience, bouncing back strongly after a narrow loss in the opening match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. They followed it up with comprehensive performances in Adelaide and Perth, leaving the reigning world champions with serious concerns ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025.
The victory was particularly noteworthy given the turmoil surrounding the team just before the tour. Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, Gary Kirsten, resigned a week prior, leaving the team under the guidance of interim coach Jason Gillespie, who also serves as their Test coach. Despite the upheaval, Pakistan seemed to thrive under Gillespie’s leadership, delivering near-flawless performances.
A key factor in their success was their formidable four-pronged pace attack, which dismantled a depleted Australian side, skittling them out for a paltry 140 in just 31.5 overs in the 3rd ODI. The bowling unit’s aggression and precision set the tone for Pakistan, who chased the target comfortably in just 27 overs, avoiding their usual middle-order collapses.
This series win is a major boost for Pakistan and showcased their ability to rise above challenges, while Australia faces critical questions about their depth and preparation.
