Bowlers shine as Australia level ODI series with Pakistan

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Jun 03, 2026

Australia produced a strong all-round performance to defeat Pakistan by 41 runs in the second ODI at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium and level the three-match series 1-1.

After being asked to bat first on a slow, spin-friendly surface, Australia posted 231 for 9 in their 50 overs. Josh Inglis top-scored with 51, while Cameron Green added 50.

Matt Renshaw contributed a valuable 43 and Oliver Peake chipped in with 31 late in the innings to help Australia reach a competitive total.

Pakistan's bowlers made good use of the conditions, with captain Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the attack with 3 for 36. Young spinner Arafat Minhas also impressed, claiming three wickets.

Chasing 232, Pakistan got off to a disastrous start as Australia's bowlers struck early. Nathan Ellis and Matt Kuhnemann removed both openers within the first two overs, leaving the hosts under pressure from the outset.

Pakistan slipped to 58 for 5 before recovering through a determined partnership between Shadab Khan and Arafat Minhas. Shadab fought hard with a patient 71 from 104 balls, keeping Pakistan's hopes alive despite wickets falling regularly at the other end.

However, he received little support from the lower order as Australia maintained control throughout the chase. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 190 in 44 overs, with Shadab becoming the final wicket.

Ellis was the standout performer with career-best figures of 4 for 33, while Matt Short claimed 3 for 36. Kuhnemann, Adam Zampa & Tanveer Sangha took one wicket apiece.

The victory keeps Australia alive in the series and sets up a decisive third ODI.