Pakistan’s Abysmal Performance Against Australia Continues in ODIs

The second one-day international between Australia and Pakistan was yet again a one-sided affair as Australia cantered to victory by 8 wickets while chasing 285. The defeat reflected Pakistan’s woes as the Pakistanis looked rather tame and lethargic.

Pakistan’s dismal performance against Australia continues as the Green Shirts have registered only 1 victory over Australia in last 12 matches.

Shocking that Pakistan has now only registered 1 win in last 12 ODIs against Australia. #PAKvAUS

— Zarar (@SyZarar) March 24, 2019

Overall – in 43 matches since the start of this century, Pakistan has managed to win only 9 against Australia with a win/loss ratio of 0.272.

Revival of Mohammad Rizwan?

With a handful of positives from the 2nd defeat of the series, Mohammad Rizwan and Mohammad Hasnain were probably the only talking points.

Mohammad Rizwan’s 115 was the first century by a Pakistani wicket-keeper in Sharjah. However, looking at the wicket, his strike rate of 91.26 was below par as Australian captain Aaron Finch struck 153* at a strike rate of 106.99. While there may not be much difference in the strike rate, the fact that Finch played according to the required run-rate whereas Rizwan’s ton came in the first innings when Pakistan had to set a target.

Australia’s top-order showed Pakistan’s counterparts the way to go despite playing away from home. Australia’s first wicket fell at 209 whereas Pakistan were reeling at 35/2 with both openers back in the pavilion.

Mohammad Rizwan played brilliantly when he came out to bat, however, he couldn’t increase the strike rate as he neared his century and even after that which shows the lack of power hitting capabilities. A target of 285 on Sharjah wicket was also going to be tough to defend against a side like Australia which is coming on the back of a series win in India.

When it comes to bowling, Australia struck regular blows to make sure Pakistan didn’t go past 300. Mohammad Hasnain, who debuted for Pakistan, made a good start to his career, bowling some good lines and a few bouncers here and there. None of the bowlers looked threatening as Australia chased down the target without any hiccups at any stage.

Update on Faheem Ashraf

All-rounder Faheem Ashraf has been called back to rest him ahead of the World Cup and he will not play the remainder of fixtures against Australia.

However, no addition will be made to the squad as Pakistan has already 5 fast bowlers in the squad.

Faheem Ashraf to be rested from remainder of #PAKvAUS ODI series
More Details ▶️https://t.co/33vkqRvLNi pic.twitter.com/BWDlvoZcCa

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) March 24, 2019