Pakistan Creates History: A Momentous ODI Series Victory Against Australia After 22 Years
On November 10, 2024, Pakistan’s cricket team made history by securing a 2-1 victory in their ODI series against Australia, marking the end of a 22-year drought for an ODI series win in Australia. This momentous achievement not only ended a long-standing wait but also demonstrated Pakistan’s resilience, tactical brilliance, and ability to perform under pressure. The series, characterized by intense competition and remarkable performances, proved to be a defining moment in Pakistan’s cricketing history.
The series began with Australia taking an early lead in Melbourne, winning the first ODI by 2 wickets. Pakistan set a modest total of 203 runs, but Australia chased it down narrowly, with captain Pat Cummins playing a vital role with an unbeaten 32*. However, Pakistan responded strongly in the second ODI in Adelaide, where they won by a dominant 9 wickets. Haris Rauf took 5 wickets to bowl Australia out for just 163, and Saim Ayub guided Pakistan’s chase with an impressive 82 off 75 balls*. The final match in Perth saw Pakistan bowl Australia out for 140 and then comfortably chased the target to win by 8 wickets, sealing the series 2-1.
This victory is not just a win in a series but a historic milestone. Before this series, Pakistan had not won an ODI series in Australia since 2002. Australia’s conditions, with their fast, bouncy pitches, have traditionally been difficult for subcontinental teams, but Pakistan proved that they have evolved into a team capable of performing in such challenging environments. The win signifies a breakthrough, ending a 22-year jinx in Australia, and places Pakistan among the top cricketing nations.
Haris Rauf was undoubtedly the standout performer of the series. With 10 wickets in 3 matches, including a 5-wicket haul in Adelaide, he was pivotal to Pakistan’s success and earned the Player of the Series award. His fiery pace and ability to take crucial wickets at key moments were instrumental in Pakistan’s victories. Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s captain, continued to show his leadership and composure, scoring consistently throughout the series.
The balance between youth and experience was one of the key reasons behind Pakistan’s success. Experienced players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi provided stability, while younger players like Saim Ayub, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain brought energy and dynamism to the team. Pakistan’s bowlers were able to exploit the conditions, using the bounce and seam movement effectively, while the batsmen adjusted their techniques to counter the Australian pace attack.
This series win is not just a victory in a bilateral series; it represents a statement of intent from Pakistan cricket. It proves that Pakistan can compete with and beat top teams in their conditions. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, this win provides a massive confidence boost for Pakistan. It also marks a new era, where emerging talents like Saim Ayub and Haris Rauf are ready to take on the mantle and lead Pakistan to future success.
Back home, the win was met with celebrations and pride, as fans poured their joy into social media. Former cricketers and analysts alike praised the team’s discipline, teamwork, and the strong performances of young players stepping up under pressure.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s 2-1 series win against Australia is a monumental achievement in the history of Pakistan cricket. The team’s collective effort, tactical brilliance, and resilience have not only ended a 22-year drought but also demonstrated that Pakistan is a formidable force in world cricket. With a mix of youthful energy and seasoned experience, Pakistan is well-prepared to take on new challenges and continue its winning momentum, paving the way for brighter days ahead.