Overview
- Pakistan sealed a 2-1 ODI series win over Australia when the hosts chased down 158 in the decider at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium after Shaheen Afridi took 3 for 30 and was named Player of the Match.
- In a post-match media session Shaheen told reporters to "just let them be," saying repeated attacks on veterans like Babar Azam are unfair and that seniors are needed to mentor younger players.
- Shaheen defended Pakistan preparing spin-friendly wickets, saying teams use home conditions to their advantage and that Pakistan must create surfaces that give them the best chance to win.
- Babar Azam contributed a half-century in Rawalpindi and a composed 40 in the decider, and CricketAddictor reported — but did not independently verify — that debutant Arafat Minhas was named Player of the Series after seven wickets and 60 runs.
- The result is Pakistan's third straight ODI series win over Australia and it may strengthen the case for selection continuity and for using home conditions as part of short-term match planning.