Pakistan’s stunning victory over Australia in the ODI series has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Mohammad Rizwan-led side, despite recent struggles, outplayed the hosts in a historic triumph.
Australia’s surrender of the series marks the first time in 22 years that they have lost an ODI series to Pakistan at home. The defeat was compounded by an unprecedented record: not a single Australian batter managed to score a half-century throughout the bilateral series.
The absence of Australia’s top players, who were rested ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, played a significant role in Pakistan’s success. While the Australian team was being hammered in Perth, captain Pat Cummins was enjoying a Coldplay concert in Sydney.
Cummins’ decision to attend the concert while his team was struggling drew criticism from the Australian media. The Sydney Morning Herald questioned why Cummins was “at Coldplay while Australia were smashed,” while The Australian labeled his absence a “cold start to summer.”
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke expressed concerns over the team management’s decision to rest key players in the third ODI. He questioned why the team prioritized rest over a chance to secure the series win.
“I’m just a bit confused. With 11 days between now and the first Test, why can’t the Aussie boys who are part of this Test series play in the one-dayer?” Clarke said.
Pakistan’s victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. They seized the opportunity presented by Australia’s weakened team and played with unwavering focus and intensity. The series win is a major boost for Pakistan’s confidence ahead of the upcoming Test series against Australia.
