Shaheen Afridi opens up after leading Pakistan to ODI series win over Australia

LAHORE: Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi has expressed delight after leading the national side to a 2-1 ODI series victory over Australia in the third and final match at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

Speaking after the match, Afridi lauded the collective team effort behind the historic triumph, particularly praising the bowlers for adapting well to challenging batting conditions and executing their plans effectively throughout the three-match series.

“It was a team effort throughout the series. It was very difficult for the batters. We put in the effort and are happy with the win. We used the conditions to our advantage,” Shaheen said.

Reflecting on the playing surfaces and Pakistan’s bowling strategy, the left-arm pacer noted that the pitches closely resembled those typically found in Australia, which allowed the fast bowlers to make a strong impact.

He also commended the bowling unit for maintaining consistent pressure through dot balls and limiting Australia’s scoring opportunities, despite a few solid partnerships from the visitors during the series.

“When you go to Australia, you get conditions that suit the fast bowlers. They did have a couple of partnerships in the series, but we focused on dot balls, and the bowlers executed the plans well. I will continue to give my best for the team,” he added.

He also reflected on his contribution to the side, emphasising his commitment to consistently performing his role and supporting the team’s overall objectives.

“I try to do as much as I can for the betterment of the team. Hopefully, I will continue to do so in the future as well,” he said with a smile.

This victory marks Pakistan's third consecutive ODI series win over Australia. The Men in Green first secured a 2-1 triumph on home soil in 2022 before repeating the same scoreline in Australia in 2025.

Pakistan sealed the series with a hard-fought win in a low-scoring encounter, bowling Australia out for 157 in 42 overs thanks to an outstanding bowling display led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and the spin duo.

Australia captain Josh Inglis anchored the innings with a top score of 65 off 71 deliveries, striking eight fours and a six. Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey were the only other notable contributors, scoring 19 runs apiece.

Shaheen spearheaded Pakistan's attack with figures of 3/30 from eight overs. Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan claimed two wickets each, while Haris Rauf chipped in with one scalp.

In response, Pakistan recovered from an early setback to reach the target in 41.5 overs, losing six wickets along the way. Abdul Samad and Shadab Khan guided the visitors home with a composed partnership.

Although Babar Azam endured a relatively slow innings, he top-scored for Pakistan with 40 off 84 deliveries, including three boundaries. Maaz Sadaqat contributed 27 from 26 balls, striking five fours.

Samad remained unbeaten on 18 from 30 deliveries, while Shadab made a valuable 29 off 42 balls, hitting two boundaries.

Matthew Kuhnemann was Australia's standout bowler, returning figures of 3/38 from his 10 overs. Nathan Ellis, Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw claimed one wicket each.