Shaheen shines as Pakistan edge out Aussies in thriller: 3rd ODI (Lahore)

Paceman Shaheeh Shah Afridi starred as Pakistan clinched the three-match ODI series 2–1 with a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Australia in the third and deciding match in Lahore.

After electing to bat, Australia were bowled out for 157 in 42 overs, with Josh Inglis top-scoring with 65. Pakistan’s pace attack set the tone, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who claimed 3/30, while Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan provided valuable support to restrict the visitors to a modest total.

Chasing 158, Pakistan were tested by Australia’s bowlers but kept the target within reach through a steady 40 from Babar Azam and an unbeaten 29 from Shadab Khan. Matthew Kuhnemann took three wickets to briefly threaten an Australian comeback, but Pakistan reached 161/6 in 41.5 overs to seal the win and secure the series 2–1.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s incisive opening spell earned him the Player of the Match award.

Pakistan 161 for 6 (Babar 40, Kuhnemann 3-38) beat Australia 157 (Inglis 65, Afridi 3-30) by four wickets.

June 2026.