Ellis stars as Australia levels ODI series against Pakistan

Australia bounced back to level the One Day International series against Pakistan at 1-1, securing a crucial 41-run victory on a challenging pitch at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. The win came thanks to a disciplined bowling performance led by seamer Nathan Ellis.

Ellis was the star of the match, claiming 4 wickets for 33 runs in his nine overs. He stepped up to spearhead the Australian attack, which was missing several frontline fast bowlers. The makeshift Australian XI posted a competitive total of 232, built on half-centuries from Cameron Green and stand-in captain Josh Inglis. Pakistan was ultimately bowled out for 190 in 44 overs, unable to chase down the target.

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With stand-in captain Josh Inglis and Cameron Green both making half-centuries, the makeshift Australian XI set Pakistan a challenging 232 to win.

Pakistan had won the opening game by five wickets in Rawalpindi. Expecting another slow, turning track, Australia included three specialist spinners, with Adam Zampa returning after recovering from neck spasms. However, it was Ellis who provided the early breakthroughs and returned to take vital wickets during Pakistan's run chase. Spinners Matt Short (3-36), Matt Kuhnemann (1-41), Zampa (1-30), and Tanveer Sangha (1-22) also applied pressure, restricting scoring and taking regular wickets.

Despite a threatening 59-run partnership between Shadab Khan (71 not out) and Arafat Minhas (33), Australia's bowlers held their nerve. Ellis trapped Minhas LBW, and Sangha eventually dismissed Shadab, leaving Pakistan short of the target. Earlier, Australia's batting effort saw Inglis and Green build a crucial partnership after an unstable start, with Green contributing 53 and Inglis scoring 51. Matt Renshaw also provided valuable support with 43 runs, ensuring Australia set a defendable score.

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Seamer Nathan Ellis was the star, returning 4-33 in his nine overs with some key wickets.