The Pakistan vs. Australia’s 2nd ODI is currently underway at Adelaide Oval,  Pakistan is giving their all to even up the series. Choosing to bowl first, Pakistan’s fast bowlers quickly troubled Australia’s batsmen. Shaheen Afridi led the way with early wickets, getting opener Jake Fraser-McGurk out for 13 and Matthew Short for 19, taking advantage of the favourable conditions for bowling.

Australia’s innings continued to struggle as Haris Rauf joined the assault, claiming the wickets of Josh Inglis, who managed 18 runs, and Marnus Labuschagne, dismissed for just 6. With Australia reeling at 87/4 within 16 overs, Steven Smith remained the steadying presence at the crease, battling against tight spells and frequent wicket losses. His cautious approach aims to give Australia a foundation for a defendable total despite the early setbacks.

Pakistan vs Australia 2nd ODI: Playing XIs

Australia XI: Matthew Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis (wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

Pakistan XI: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Agha Salman (vc), Irfan Khan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Shaheen Afridi

Pakistan’s bowling performance today showcases their aggression and precision, with Afridi and Rauf leading the charge. Afridi’s sharp in-swingers and Rauf’s pace have limited Australia’s scoring opportunities, as their combined efforts continue to pressure Australia into conservative play. 

With big hitters like Glenn Maxwell and Aaron Hardie still waiting for their turn, Australia’s batting lineup holds potential for a late recovery if Smith and the middle-order can stabilise the innings.

As the game progresses, Pakistan will aim to wrap up Australia’s innings quickly to avoid a high chase, while Australia looks to regroup and post a challenging total to keep the series lead within reach. The match promises high stakes, with Pakistan keen to avoid a series loss and Australia eyeing another win on home soil.