Nathan Ellis shines with Australian batting in Lahore, draws ODI series 1-1 against Pakistan

Australia level the series (Image: X) Australia produced a disciplined all-round performance to beat Pakistan by 41 runs in the second ODI at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday to level the three-match series 1-1 and decide the winner-takes-all.Asked to bat first, Australia overcame early setbacks to post a competitive 231/9 in their 50 overs. Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi struck on the very first ball of the match, dismissing Alex Carey to give the hosts a dream start. However, Australia’s innings was rebuilt with vital contributions from Josh Inglis and Cameron Green.Inglis top-scored with 51 off 74 deliveries while Green compiled a composed 53. The duo steadied the innings after Australia slumped to 51/3 and added valuable runs in tough batting conditions. Youngster Oliver Peake then provided a late breakthrough to take Australia past the 230-run mark.Pakistan’s bowlers shared the wickets with Shaheen leading the charge and finishing among the top performers. Despite keeping Australia in check for much of the innings, the hosts were left with 232 to chase for victory.The Australian bowlers responded brilliantly. The visitors struck twice in the opening three overs before catching former captain Babar Azam early, leaving Pakistan reeling at 35/3. Matthew Short and Nathan Ellis played key roles with the ball as goals fell at regular intervals.Shadab Khan launched a spirited resistance with a struggling 71, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive despite the collapse around him. Arafat Minhas also offered support, but the rate demanded continued to rise as Australia kept up the relentless pressure.Nathan Ellis proved to be the destroyer in chief, producing career best ODI figures of 4/33. Matthew Short also made a big impact and together they took seven wickets to derail Pakistan’s chase. Eventually, the hosts were bowled out for 190 in 44 overs, falling 41 runs short of the target.The win marks a strong comeback for Australia after defeat in the opening ODI and keeps the series alive heading into the final match. For Pakistan, Shadab’s brave knock was one of the few positives in an otherwise disappointing batting performance as they failed to capitalize on a strong start with the ball.Result: Australia 231/9 (50 overs) beat Pakistan 190 (44 overs) by 41 runs. The three-match ODI series is now tied 1-1.