Pak vs Aus Live: Australia Tightens Grip as Pakistan Stumbles to 121/6 in Chase

Australia put themselves in a commanding position in the Pakistan vs Australia 2nd ODI after leaving the hosts struggling at 121/6 in 27.3 overs while chasing 232 for victory.

Pakistan's chase got off to the worst possible start as Maaz Sadaqat was dismissed for a duck in just the third ball of the innings. The pressure increased moments later when Sahibzada Farhan fell for three, leaving the hosts reeling at 6/2.

Australia's fast bowlers made excellent use of the new ball, and Nathan Ellis delivered another breakthrough by trapping Babar Azam lbw for 16. The former Pakistan captain looked positive during his brief stay but was unable to convert his start into a significant score.

With Pakistan under pressure, Ghazi Ghori attempted to rebuild the innings. The wicketkeeper-batter played a steady knock of 37 from 48 balls, striking five boundaries and holding the innings together for a period. However, wickets continued to fall around him.

Salman Agha, one of Pakistan's key middle-order batters, managed only seven runs before becoming Matthew Short's first victim of the day. Short then struck again by removing Abdul Samad for just two runs, putting Australia firmly on top.

Ghazi Ghori's dismissal for 37 further dented Pakistan's hopes. Adam Zampa provided the breakthrough, ending a partnership that had offered some resistance. At 78/6, the hosts were staring at a heavy defeat.

Shadab Khan and Arafat Minhas have since provided much-needed stability. Shadab remained unbeaten on 28 from 50 balls, while Arafat contributed a positive 25 from 31 deliveries. Their partnership has helped Pakistan recover to 121/6, but the required work remains substantial.

Australia's bowling attack has been disciplined and relentless throughout the chase. Nathan Ellis led the way with figures of 2/23, while Matthew Short delivered a surprise impact spell, claiming 2/25. Matthew Kuhnemann removed Sahibzada Farhan early, and Adam Zampa kept the pressure on with an economical spell that yielded one wicket.

The Australian bowlers have consistently built pressure through dot balls and tight lines, making scoring difficult for Pakistan. With only four wickets remaining and more than 100 runs still required, the visitors have taken firm control of the contest.

Prediction

Australia is currently favorites to win the match. Pakistan still needs 111 runs with only four wickets in hand, and the pressure is growing with every over. Shadab Khan and Arafat Minhas must produce something special to keep the chase alive.

If Australia can break the current partnership quickly, they should be able to wrap up the innings and level the series. At this stage, Australia holds a clear advantage and appears on course for victory.