Saim Ayub struck a powerful 82, and Abdullah Shafique remained unbeaten on 64 as Pakistan defeated Australia by nine wickets in the second ODI at Adelaide Oval, levelling the series on Friday.

Chasing a modest target of 163 after a stellar 5-29 from Haris Rauf, Pakistan reached 169-1 with 141 balls remaining. The victory set up a series decider scheduled for Sunday at Perth Stadium, following Australia’s narrow two-wicket win in the first ODI in Melbourne.

Ayub and Shafique initially took a cautious approach, held back by tight bowling from Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, scoring just 47 runs in the first 10 overs. However, they picked up the pace, with Ayub launching a six off Cummins and later another off Mitchell Starc.

Ayub, 22, was dropped on 47 by Adam Zampa and soon brought up his maiden ODI half-century in only his second game. Shafique joined the scoring with big hits of his own. Ayub’s innings ended when he attempted a big shot off Zampa, caught by Hazlewood after a 71-ball effort that included five fours and six sixes.

Captain Babar Azam (15 not out) then joined Shafique to complete the chase, finishing the match with Pakistan’s 10th six.

“The most important thing is the team won,” said Ayub. “We planned to be positive and not focus on the result, but playing as a team is key. Credit goes to Haris Rauf, and the other bowlers also supported him well Read More…….