(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan’s Approach in 2nd ODI Draws Criticism After Loss to Australia
Former Pakistan fast bowler Junaid Khan has commented on Pakistan’s approach in the second One-Day International (ODI) against Australia, suggesting that the team struggled to adapt to conditions during their 41-run defeat in Lahore.
Pakistan lost the match at Gaddafi Stadium as Australia levelled the three-match series 1-1 with a disciplined bowling performance and key contributions from both batters and bowlers.
Following the match, Junaid Khan shared his views on social media, stating that Pakistan’s plan to prepare a spin-friendly pitch did not produce the desired outcome, as the visiting team handled the conditions more effectively.
Australia posted 231-9 in their innings, with useful half-centuries from Josh Inglis and Cameron Green helping them recover after early setbacks. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, kept the visitors under pressure at different stages of the innings.
In response, Pakistan were bowled out for 190 despite a fighting 71 from Shadab Khan. Contributions from Ghazi Ghori and Arafat Minhas were not enough to build a successful chase.
Australia’s bowling attack, led by Nathan Ellis, played a key role in restricting Pakistan’s batting lineup. Ellis took four wickets, while other bowlers provided consistent support throughout the innings.
The result sets up a series decider in the final ODI, with both teams now looking to gain the upper hand in the concluding match.
