Pakistan's 2-1 One-Day International series victory over Australia has been overshadowed by a growing debate over the spin-friendly pitches prepared in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
The hosts opted for turning tracks to maximize home advantage against a relatively inexperienced Australian side, a strategy that ultimately paid off as Pakistan sealed the series with a thrilling low-scoring win at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
However, critics argue that such conditions may do little to prepare Pakistan for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, where fast bowlers are expected to play a much greater role.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi defended the team's pitch strategy, saying every nation prepares conditions best suited to its strengths in order to win at home.
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He noted that the World Cup is still 15 months away, giving Pakistan ample time to adapt to different playing conditions.
The series also provided opportunities for emerging players. Left-arm spinner Arafat Minhas enjoyed a dream start to his ODI career, claiming five wickets on debut and earning the Player of the Series award. Fellow spinner Abrar Ahmed also impressed with his performances throughout the series.
Meanwhile, the return of all-rounder Shadab Khan attracted significant attention. Although he struggled with the ball in the first two matches, he bounced back strongly and made valuable contributions with the bat. Afridi described Shadab's resurgence as one of the biggest positives to emerge from Pakistan's series triumph.
Earlier, Pakistan secured a 2-1 One-Day International series victory over Australia after defeating the visitors by four wickets in the third and final ODI at Lahore on Thursday.
Chasing a modest target of 158, Pakistan reached 158-6 in 41.5 overs. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi was named Player of the Match, while Arafat Minhas earned the Player of the Series award.
More read, Pakistan eyes series win in decisive ODI
The win marked Pakistan's third consecutive ODI series triumph over Australia.
