(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Nathan Ellis’ Four-Wicket Haul Helps Australia Level ODI Series Against Pakistan
Australia defeated Pakistan by 41 runs in the second One-Day International (ODI) in Lahore, leveling the three-match series 1-1 at Gaddafi Stadium.
Fast bowler Nathan Ellis produced a career-best performance, taking 4 wickets for 33 runs, as Australia defended a total of 231-9 in 50 overs. Pakistan were bowled out for 190 in 44 overs in response.
Australia’s innings featured key contributions from Josh Inglis, who scored 51, and Cameron Green, who made 53, helping the visitors recover after early setbacks. Matthew Renshaw and Oliver Peake also added valuable runs in the middle and lower order to push the total beyond 230.
Pakistan’s bowling attack made early inroads, with Shaheen Shah Afridi striking on the first ball of the match and Abrar Ahmed and Arafat Minhas also picking up wickets during the Australian innings. Minhas finished with two wickets, while Shaheen returned figures of 3-36.
In reply, Pakistan struggled to build consistent partnerships despite a strong effort from Shadab Khan. The all-rounder played a fighting innings of 71 runs off 104 balls and was the last batter dismissed.
Pakistan’s chase was derailed early as Australia’s bowling attack struck regularly. Ellis removed key top-order batters, including Babar Azam for 16, to put the visitors in control. Matthew Short also impressed with a three-wicket haul.
Shadab Khan attempted to revive the innings with partnerships in the middle order, but Pakistan continued to lose wickets at regular intervals and were eventually bowled out well short of the target.
With the series now level at 1-1, the final ODI in Lahore is set to decide the winner of the three-match contest.
