Pak vs Aus Live: Babar Azam Steadies Pakistan as Hosts Reach 92/3 in Chase of 158

Pakistan began the chase positively but lost opener Sahibzada Farhan in the third over. Nathan Ellis provided Australia with the breakthrough after Farhan scored 6, giving the visitors an early boost in their attempt to defend a below-par total.

Following the early setback, Maaz Sadaqat played an aggressive knock to keep the scoreboard moving. The young batter struck five boundaries during his 27-run innings and helped Pakistan build momentum during the powerplay. Alongside Babar Azam, he added valuable runs before Matthew Short struck for Australia.

Sadaqat was trapped lbw by Short after Pakistan reviewed the decision, but the original verdict stood. His dismissal left the hosts at 41/2 and handed Australia another opening in the contest.

Babar continued to hold the innings together and was joined by wicketkeeper-batter Ghazi Ghori. The pair attempted to stabilize the chase and guided Pakistan beyond the 50-run mark. However, Australia found another breakthrough when Matthew Kuhnemann removed Ghori for 8, reducing Pakistan to 60/3.

With three wickets down, Pakistan needed an experienced partnership, and Babar found support from captain Salman Agha. The duo adopted a measured approach, rotating the strike regularly while ensuring no further wickets fell.

Babar looked comfortable throughout his innings, reaching 29 not out from 65 deliveries. Although he scored at a controlled pace, his presence at the crease provided Pakistan with the stability needed during a crucial phase of the chase.

Salman also settled in well and contributed 14 not out, helping Pakistan rebuild after the loss of early wickets. Together, the pair guided the hosts past the 90-run mark and gradually moved them closer to the target.

Australia attempted to create opportunities through their spin attack, with Kuhnemann and Short claiming a wicket each. Adam Zampa maintained pressure from one end, while Ellis remained Australia's most economical pace option.

A brief moment of drama occurred late in the innings when Australia reviewed a decision against Babar Azam. However, the challenge was unsuccessful, allowing the former Pakistan captain to continue his innings.

At 92/3 after 22.1 overs, Pakistan remained in a strong position in the chase, needing just 66 more runs with seven wickets in hand. With Babar Azam and Salman Agha well set at the crease, the hosts appeared firmly in control as they pushed toward victory in the series-deciding third ODI.