Rauf’s Fiery Spell and Ayub’s Stellar Knock Give Pakistan a Historic ODI Win in Australia
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- November 8, 2024
- 4:00 pm
- 22
- Sports
Pakistan claimed a stunning nine-wicket victory over Australia at Adelaide, leveling the ODI series and marking their first win on Australian soil since 2017. Dominating in all departments, Pakistan set up an exciting series decider in Perth. Here’s a breakdown of how Haris Rauf’s blistering bowling and Saim Ayub’s sensational knock turned the tables in this match.
Haris Rauf’s Game-Changing Spell
Haris Rauf was electric, tearing through Australia’s middle order with a fiery five-wicket haul that left the hosts reeling. Known for his aggressive pace, Rauf’s delivery to remove Marnus Labuschagne was a highlight, a Test-quality ball that forced Labuschagne to edge one to Mohammad Rizwan behind the stumps. This marked Rauf’s second consecutive game with a significant impact on Australia’s batting, showing how much of a threat he is in any ODI setting.
Rauf’s consistency has been unmatched in this series. His figures of 5 for 29, combined with his previous match’s performance, now amount to 17-0-96-8 across two innings—a testament to his ability to keep the opposition guessing with his aggressive line and pace.
Australia’s Collapse at Adelaide
Australia’s batting faltered badly, bundled out for just 163 runs. On a pitch with a healthy grass cover, the home side looked poised for a decent total, but Pakistan’s disciplined bowling shattered those hopes. Steven Smith’s 35 was the highest score for Australia, a reflection of just how unsteady their innings was.
Opening pair Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk couldn’t hold ground. Fraser-McGurk, who initially looked promising with some clean boundaries, was trapped lbw by Shaheen Shah Afridi, while Short managed only 19 before falling to a Babar Azam catch. Smith, although steady, wasn’t spared, with Mohammad Hasnain sending him back. Australia’s aggressive batting strategy was exposed, especially against Pakistan’s pinpoint bowling.
Pakistan’s Clinical Chase Led by Ayub and Shafique
Chasing 164, Pakistan’s openers were all composure and class. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique started cautiously, handling Australia’s new ball with calculated patience. Ayub, who had a slow start, soon unleashed a series of stunning strokes that left the Australian bowlers searching for answers.
Ayub’s powerful drives and sixes off Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins thrilled the crowd. His 82 runs off 52 balls marked his first ODI half-century in just his second game, putting Pakistan firmly in command. Shafique complemented Ayub with a calm and collected 64*, and together, they put in a 137-run opening stand, paving the way for a dominant win.
Ayub’s Breakout Performance
Saim Ayub’s innings was a revelation, proving his ability to handle pressure on the international stage. After a slow beginning, Ayub opened up with a beautiful square drive off Hazlewood, followed by consecutive sixes against Starc and Cummins. Given a lifeline on 47 when Zampa dropped a catch, Ayub capitalized on it, scoring at will and showcasing his power. His confident and aggressive batting style could be a big asset for Pakistan going forward.
Rizwan’s Record-Breaking Performance Behind the Stumps
Skipper Mohammad Rizwan had an equally impressive outing, tying the ODI record for most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in a match (six). Rizwan’s safe hands supported Rauf’s attack, as he kept the pressure on Australia’s struggling lineup. Although he missed a late chance for a standalone record, Rizwan’s leadership in the field was commendable.
Australia’s “Big Four” Missing for the Decider
Australia heads into the series decider with a depleted squad. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne will miss the game to prepare for their upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. This leaves Josh Inglis to captain an inexperienced side. Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa are the only familiar faces from Australia’s World Cup squad.
Cummins summed up Australia’s performance simply: “It wasn’t one of our best days. You hope to get more than 160 [but] they bowled well. We got some catchers in, tried to attack, but it wasn’t to be.”
Pakistan’s Momentum Heading into Perth
For Pakistan, this win has rekindled the spark in their ODI campaign, setting the stage for a thrilling decider. This comprehensive win bolsters confidence and shows the depth of talent in their squad. With Rauf, Ayub, and Shafique all finding form, Pakistan has a golden chance to clinch a rare ODI series victory on Australian soil.
Decider in Perth
With the momentum on their side, Pakistan has a prime opportunity to win the series. Australia’s absence of key players might tilt the odds, but they’ll look to rally with what they have. Expect fireworks in Perth as both sides compete fiercely to take the series.
Pakistan’s emphatic nine-wicket win in Adelaide has set the stage for an exciting finale, with the young squad proving they’re more than ready to go head-to-head with Australia in their own backyard.
