Afghanistan delivered a commanding performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, defeating Australia by 35 runs in the third and final match of the T10 series. With this emphatic victory, Afghanistan sealed the series in style, showcasing their depth, discipline, and fearless approach in the shortest format.
Batting first, Afghanistan posted 110/8 in 10 overs, a total built on crucial middle-order contributions. After an early collapse at 1/1 and 22/2, Najibullah Zadran (30 off 16) and Mohammad Nabi (25 off 14) stabilized the innings with aggressive stroke play. Their partnership lifted Afghanistan from pressure and created the momentum they needed. Toward the end, Karim Janat provided the perfect late surge with a blazing 28 off 12*, lifting the team to a competitive total despite Australia’s disciplined bowling in patches.
Australia’s chase never found rhythm, dismantled early by a fiery spell from Fazalhaq Farooqi, who ripped through the top order with 3/4 in just 2 overs, earning him the Man of the Match award. His double-strike inside the first few deliveries left Australia stunned at 2/2, and they never recovered. Azmatullah Omarzai (2/24) and Naveen-ul-Haq (1/16) kept the squeeze on, while Afghanistan’s strong fielding created constant pressure.
Despite small contributions from Sean Abbott (12 off 10) and Josh Inglis (17 off 7), Australia collapsed to 75/9 in 10 overs, marking their lowest total of the series. With sharp bowling, energetic fielding, and clever match awareness, Afghanistan completely outplayed their opponents.
This final match showcased Afghanistan’s evolution as a dynamic T10 side—fearless batting, controlled spin, smart powerplay bowling, and relentless pressure. A confident finish to a superb series.