Australia vs Pakistan: Hosts humbled in nine-wicket defeat in second ODI to set up Perth decider

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's masterclass sets up a decider

Pakistan crushed Australia by nine wickets in the second ODI in Adelaide on Thursday, leveling the three-match series 1-1 and setting up a thrilling finale in Perth on Sunday.

Australia, sent in to bat first, was bowled out for a paltry 117 in 30.3 overs, with only Usman Khawaja (29) and Matthew Wade (26) managing to reach double figures. Pakistan's bowlers were in devastating form, with Shaheen Shah Afridi (4-31) and Mohammad Wasim (4-40) sharing eight wickets between them.

In reply, Pakistan chased down the target in just 17.5 overs, thanks to a brilliant opening partnership between Babar Azam (59*) and Mohammad Rizwan (55*). The duo put on an unbeaten 116-run stand, with Azam hitting six fours and two sixes, while Rizwan struck seven fours and a six. Pakistan's victory was their first in an ODI against Australia since 1998.

The series decider will be played in Perth on Sunday, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter. Australia will be desperate to bounce back from their heavy defeat, while Pakistan will be looking to seal the series with a victory.