Australia produced a spirited performance in Lahore to defeat Pakistan by 41 runs in the second One Day International and level the three match series at 1-1. Playing with a weakened squad and on a surface that heavily favoured spin, the visitors showed impressive discipline with both bat and ball to keep the contest alive.
After struggling in the opening match, Australia adapted much better to the challenging conditions at Gaddafi Stadium. Batting first, they occupied the crease for the full 50 overs and posted 232 runs, a total that appeared competitive on a wicket offering turn and inconsistent bounce throughout the day.
The Australian innings was built around valuable contributions from Josh Inglis and Cameron Green, who both reached half centuries. Inglis scored 51 from 74 deliveries while Green displayed patience before also bringing up a fifty. Matt Renshaw continued his excellent form with a fluent 43 from 43 balls, while Oliver Peake added a quick 31 from just 32 deliveries to provide a late boost.
Pakistan’s spinners kept the pressure on for much of the innings. Arafat Minhas once again impressed, removing Marnus Labuschagne and Inglis, while Abrar Ahmed claimed the important wicket of Matt Short. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Australia resisted the temptation to attack recklessly and gradually built a respectable score.
In reply, Pakistan suffered an early collapse that ultimately proved too costly. Nathan Ellis made an immediate impact by dismissing Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam inside the opening overs. Matt Kuhnemann also struck early, leaving the hosts under severe pressure.
With wickets tumbling around him, Shadab Khan produced a determined innings of 71 from 104 balls to keep Pakistan’s hopes alive. He shared a useful partnership with Minhas and battled cramps while attempting to guide the chase. However, support from the lower order never arrived.
Australia’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings. Ellis delivered the standout performance, finishing with career best figures of 4 for 33 from nine overs. His breakthroughs at crucial moments prevented Pakistan from building momentum. Matt Short also played a key role with the ball, while Adam Zampa and Kuhnemann contributed important wickets.
Pakistan were eventually dismissed for 191 in 44 overs, with Shadab becoming the final wicket. Australia’s all round effort, highlighted by Ellis’ brilliance and sensible batting on a difficult pitch, ensured the series will now be decided in the final match.
