Haris Rauf falls one wicket short of equalizing Waqar Younis' historic ODI record

In a thrilling contest during Pakistan's ongoing three-match ODI series against Australia, fast bowler Haris Rauf came agonizingly close to matching a historic record held by cricket legend Waqar Younis. Rauf finished the series with 10 wickets, just one shy of equaling Younis’ iconic achievement of 11 wickets in a series, which he set back in 1990 during Pakistan’s clash with New Zealand.

The match, held in Perth, saw Pakistan dominate Australia with an exceptional bowling display. The hosts were sent packing for a mere 140 runs in just 31.5 overs. Rauf played a pivotal role in Pakistan's triumph, taking 2 wickets for 24 runs in his 7 overs, but ultimately fell short of matching Younis’ long-standing record.

Despite not equaling the record, Rauf’s performance secured his place in the history books, earning him second place for the most wickets taken in a single ODI series for Pakistan. He joins the ranks of notable Pakistani bowlers who have claimed 10 wickets in an ODI series, including Saeed Ajmal (2012 against Australia), Naseem Shah (2022 against Netherlands), and Umar Gul (2009 against Sri Lanka).

The second ODI saw a stellar performance from Pakistan's bowling attack. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah claimed three wickets each, while Rauf contributed with his two-wicket haul and Mohammad Hasnain chipped in with one. Sean Abbott was the top scorer for Australia, contributing 30 runs from 41 balls.

With this victory, Pakistan is now on the brink of securing their first ODI series win against Australia on Australian soil in 22 years.