In a thrilling second encounter at the Gabba, Australia edged past Afghanistan by 5 wickets with just one ball remaining, leveling the series in dramatic fashion. Afghanistan, batting first, were powered by a spectacular knock from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, whose explosive 69 off 28 balls – featuring relentless stroke play and a strike rate of 246.43 – set the tone for a competitive total. Support from Hazratullah Zazai (21 off 15) and late contributions from Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai pushed Afghanistan to 116/4 in 10 overs. Australia’s bowling struggled for control, with only Sean Abbott and Adam Zampa managing a wicket each.
Chasing 117, Australia faced early pressure as Mitch Marsh, Labuschagne, and Steve Smith departed at crucial stages, but Josh Inglis produced a match-defining unbeaten knock of 51 from 19 balls, striking at an incredible 268.42. His clean hitting kept Australia alive despite regular breakthroughs from Rashid Khan and Azmatullah Omarzai, who picked two and one wickets respectively. With 5 needed off the final two balls, Inglis held his nerve to guide Australia home at 117/5 in 9.5 overs, sealing a thrilling finish. Despite Afghanistan’s spirited defense and Gurbaz’s standout innings, Australia’s composure at the death ensured the series remained wide open heading into the decider.