Pakistan secured a whitewash against Afghanistan in the final match of the series, earning a 3-0 victory and rising to the number one spot in the one-day international (ODI) rankings. Pakistan successfully defended a target of 269 runs, dismissing Afghanistan for 209 runs in 48.4 overs. Leg-spinner Shadab Khan was the top performer for Pakistan, taking 3 wickets for 42 runs in his 10 overs. Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam were the key contributors for Pakistan with the bat, both scoring fifties. This series win places Pakistan at the top of the ODI rankings and continues their strong form in limited-overs cricket.
- ODI Series Whitewash: Pakistan’s 3-0 series win against Afghanistan is a significant achievement. Not only did they win all three matches convincingly, but they also secured the top spot in the ODI rankings, reflecting their strong performance in the format.
- Key Performers: In the third ODI, Pakistan’s leg-spinner Shadab Khan played a crucial role, taking three wickets for just 42 runs in his 10 overs. With this performance, he showcased his effectiveness as a spin bowler in limited-overs cricket.
- Batting Prowess: Pakistan’s batting line-up was consistent throughout the series. Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, in particular, stood out with their performances. They both scored fifties in the final match, helping Pakistan set a competitive target.
- Thrilling Matches: The series featured some thrilling moments, with close finishes in the first and third ODIs. Naseem Shah’s heroics in the final over of the third match, where Pakistan needed 11 runs off 6 balls, added to the excitement.
- Strong Bowling: Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, Faheem Ashraf, and others, consistently put pressure on Afghanistan’s batting line-up. This disciplined bowling played a significant role in Pakistan’s success.
- Promising Signs for Afghanistan: Despite the series loss, Afghanistan showed glimpses of potential. They have some talented young players who gained valuable experience in this series, which can be beneficial for their development in international cricket.
- Top ODI Ranking: Pakistan’s series win propelled them to the number one spot in the ODI rankings. This is a significant achievement for the team and reflects their consistency and competitiveness in the format.
Overall, Pakistan’s clean sweep in the ODI series against Afghanistan is a positive sign for their cricketing future, and it will boost their confidence as they prepare for future international contests.
Playing XI
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (captain), Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Shaheen Afridi.
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Gulbadin Naib, Riaz Hassan, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi