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Pakistan's pace attack proved to be the decisive factor in their stunning 2-1 ODI series win over Australia, marking their first series victory in Australia in 22 years. The visitors displayed incredible bowling prowess, restricting Australia to a paltry total of 140 in the decisive third ODI, after the hosts had crumbled to just 163 in the second match. The Pakistani pacers consistently troubled the Australian batsmen, demonstrating their dominance throughout the series.
Australia's batting woes continued in the final ODI. They were sent into bat first and made a poor start, with Jake Fraser-McGurk, who had been struggling throughout the series, falling early for just 7 runs. Aaron Hardie, promoted to number three, also failed to capitalize on his opportunity, succumbing to a delivery from Shaheen Afridi. Despite a brief recovery to 54/2 at the end of the 10th over, Australia suffered a series of setbacks that ultimately led to their downfall. Naseem Shah, changing ends, dismissed both Josh Inglis and Matthew Short, while Cooper Connolly was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the glove.
The Australian innings continued to unravel as Glenn Maxwell, once again, failed to make an impact, registering his second duck of the series. Haris Rauf, Pakistan's leading wicket-taker in the series, was responsible for his dismissal. Marcus Stoinis, despite a brief flourish, was removed for 8 runs, leaving the Australian middle order in disarray. Sean Abbott and Adam Zampa, despite attempting to salvage something from the wreckage, couldn't stem the tide of wickets, ultimately leaving Australia to be bowled out for 140 in 31.5 overs. Shaheen Afridi, demonstrating his exceptional skills, claimed the final two wickets in the space of three deliveries, completing a memorable bowling performance.