In a scintillating start to the 2025 Australia vs Pakistan cricket series, Pakistan claimed a dominant 44-run victory in the first match at the Multan Cricket Stadium on December 23, 2025. The match was a masterclass in aggressive batting and disciplined bowling, with Fakhar Zaman leading the charge to earn Man of the Match honors.

Pakistan Innings (140/6 in 10.0 overs):
Chasing a target of 140, Pakistan posted a formidable total with Fakhar Zaman smashing an unbeaten 53 off just 21 balls. His blistering knock included 4 fours and 3 sixes, setting the tone for a high-octane innings. Saim Ayub (16) and Saud Shakeel (14) made early contributions before falling, but Shan Masood (25) and Aamer Jamal (13) steadied the innings. The middle order, led by Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha, ensured Pakistan finished strong, reaching 140 for 6 in 10 overs. The team’s only blemish was 7 extras, including 6 wides, but the overall performance was electric.

Australia Innings (96/10 in 9.4 overs):
Australia’s chase was derailed early, as they collapsed to 96 all out in just 9.4 overs. David Warner (7) and Mitch Marsh (2) fell cheaply, and Matt Renshaw (33) was the only bright spot, hitting 33 off 14 balls. However, the middle order failed to capitalize, with Steve Smith (3) and Josh Inglis (17) unable to stabilize. Cameron Green (10) and Pat Cummins (10) showed fight, but the damage was already done. The Australian innings was dismantled by Hasan Ali, who took 3 wickets for 22 runs, and Muhammad Abbas, who claimed 1 for 30. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Aamer Jamal also played key roles in the bowling attack.

Key Performers:

• Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan) – 53* (21 balls) – Man of the Match
• Hasan Ali (Pakistan) – 3 wickets for 22 runs
• Muhammad Abbas (Pakistan) – 1 wicket for 30 runs
• Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan) – 1 wicket for 12 runs
• Adam Zampa (Australia) – 0 wickets, 1 over, 32 runs – struggled under pressure

Match Highlights:

• Fakhar Zaman’s explosive innings was the cornerstone of Pakistan’s success.
• Australia’s top order collapsed, losing 6 wickets for just 23 runs.
• Pakistan’s bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, with Hasan Ali and Muhammad Abbas leading the charge.
• The match was a showcase of power-hitting and precision bowling, setting the stage for an exciting series.

Final Result:
Pakistan won by 44 runs – a resounding victory that gives them a 1-0 lead in the 5-match series.