The rivalry between the Australian Men’s Cricket Team and the Pakistan National Cricket Team is one of cricket’s most intense and storied matchups. Spanning decades, this competition has seen a clash of styles, Australia’s aggressive dominance and Pakistan’s unpredictable brilliance.
From legendary Test series to gripping ODIs and T20Is, these encounters have created countless memorable moments, etching this rivalry into cricketing history.
This blog delves into the journey of the Australia-Pakistan cricket rivalry, covering key matches, iconic series, and unforgettable moments that have defined their battles across formats.
A Brief History of Australia vs Pakistan Rivalry
The rivalry began with Pakistan’s maiden tour of Australia in 1956, shortly after their Test debut. Over the years, the competition has been marked by fierce contests, with both teams producing cricketing legends who left indelible marks on the game.
Players like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Javed Miandad, Shane Warne, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Smith have been pivotal in shaping the rivalry.
While Australia has often been the dominant force, especially at home, Pakistan’s unpredictability and flair have led to some stunning victories, particularly in ICC tournaments. Both teams have pushed each other to excel, creating a compelling narrative in world cricket.
Australia vs Pakistan Head-to-Head Statistics:
| Statistic | Test (1956–2024) | ODI (1975–2024) | T20I (2007–2024) |
| Span | 1956–2024 | 1975–2024 | 2007–2024 |
| Matches Played | 69 | 107 | 29 |
| Wins (Australia) | 35 | 68 | 14 |
| Wins (Pakistan) | 15 | 34 | 10 |
| Draws | 19 | 0 | 0 |
| Ties | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| No Result | 0 | 4 | 1 |
| Win Percentage (Australia) | 50.72% | 63.55% | 48.28% |
| Win Percentage (Pakistan) | 21.74% | 31.78% | 34.48% |
Australia’s dominance is evident in Tests and ODIs, but Pakistan’s flair has shone brightly in ICC tournaments and T20Is, where matches are often decided in the final moments.
Timeline of Australia vs Pakistan Matches
Australia vs Pakistan Test Matches Timeline
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Test cricket has been the bedrock of this rivalry, showcasing skill, strategy, and endurance. Australia’s ability to dominate at home contrasts with Pakistan’s resilience and creativity, particularly in spin-friendly conditions.
| Series/Tournament | Winner | Margin |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Match 1956/57 | Pakistan | 1-0 (1) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1959/60 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Match 1964/65 | Drawn | 0-0 (1) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Match 1964/65 | Drawn | 0-0 (1) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1972/73 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1976/77 | Drawn | 1-1 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1978/79 | Drawn | 1-1 (2) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1979/80 | Pakistan | 1-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1981/82 | Australia | 2-1 (3) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1982/83 | Pakistan | 3-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1983/84 | Australia | 2-0 (5) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1988/89 | Pakistan | 1-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1989/90 | Australia | 1-0 (3) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1994/95 | Pakistan | 1-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1995/96 | Australia | 2-1 (3) |
| Australia in Pakistan Test Series 1998/99 | Australia | 1-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 1999/00 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Australia v Pakistan Test Series (Sri Lanka/UAE) 2002/03 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 2004/05 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 2009/10 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| MCC Spirit of Cricket Test Series 2010 | Drawn | 1-1 (2) |
| Pakistan v Australia Test Series (UAE) 2014/15 | Pakistan | 2-0 (2) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 2016/17 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Pakistan v Australia Test Series (UAE) 2018/19 | Pakistan | 1-0 (2) |
| Pakistan in Australia Test Series 2019/20 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
| Benaud-Qadir Trophy (Australia in Pakistan) 2021/22 | Australia | 1-0 (3) |
| Benaud-Qadir Trophy (Pakistan in Australia) 2023/24 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
Australia vs Pakistan ODI Matches Timeline
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ODIs have provided some of the most dramatic moments in this rivalry. From thrilling run-chases to iconic World Cup clashes, these encounters have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
| Series/Tournament | Winner | Margin |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Nov 10, 2024 | Pakistan | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Nov 8, 2024 | Pakistan | 9 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Nov 4, 2024 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Oct 20, 2023 | Australia | 62 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Apr 2, 2022 | Pakistan | 9 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Mar 31, 2022 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Mar 29, 2022 | Australia | 88 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 12, 2019 | Australia | 41 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 31, 2019 | Australia | 20 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 29, 2019 | Australia | 6 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 27, 2019 | Australia | 80 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 24, 2019 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 22, 2019 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 26, 2017 | Australia | 57 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 22, 2017 | Australia | 86 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 19, 2017 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 15, 2017 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 13, 2017 | Australia | 92 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 20, 2015 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Oct 12, 2014 | Australia | 1 run |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Oct 10, 2014 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Oct 7, 2014 | Australia | 93 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 3, 2012 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Aug 31, 2012 | Pakistan | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Aug 28, 2012 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 19, 2011 | Pakistan | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 31, 2010 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 29, 2010 | Australia | 135 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 26, 2010 | Australia | 40 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 24, 2010 | Australia | 140 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 22, 2010 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 30, 2009 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, May 3, 2009 | Pakistan | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, May 1, 2009 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Apr 27, 2009 | Australia | 27 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Apr 24, 2009 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Apr 22, 2009 | Pakistan | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 6, 2005 | Australia | 31 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 4, 2005 | Australia | 18 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 30, 2005 | Pakistan | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 23, 2005 | Australia | 9 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 16, 2005 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 4, 2004 | Australia | 10 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Aug 28, 2004 | Australia | 17 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 11, 2003 | Australia | 82 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 7, 2002 | No result | – |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 4, 2002 | Australia | 9 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Aug 30, 2002 | Australia | 224 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 19, 2002 | Pakistan | 91 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 15, 2002 | Pakistan | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 12, 2002 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 23, 2001 | Australia | 9 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 19, 2001 | Pakistan | 36 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 9, 2001 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 4, 2000 | Australia | 152 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 2, 2000 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 23, 2000 | Australia | 15 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 19, 2000 | Australia | 81 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 16, 2000 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 9, 2000 | Pakistan | 45 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 20, 1999 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, May 23, 1999 | Pakistan | 10 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Nov 10, 1998 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Nov 8, 1998 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Nov 6, 1998 | Australia | 86 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 16, 1997 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 7, 1997 | Pakistan | 29 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 1, 1997 | Pakistan | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 15, 1996 | Pakistan | 12 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 30, 1994 | Australia | 64 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 22, 1994 | Pakistan | 9 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 14, 1994 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Sep 7, 1994 | Australia | 28 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 14, 1993 | Australia | 23 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 12, 1993 | Australia | 32 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 13, 1992 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 10, 1992 | Tied | – |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Mar 11, 1992 | Pakistan | 48 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, May 4, 1990 | Pakistan | 36 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 25, 1990 | Australia | 69 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 23, 1990 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 20, 1990 | Pakistan | 2 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 13, 1990 | Pakistan | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Feb 11, 1990 | Australia | 67 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 3, 1990 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 23, 1989 | Pakistan | 66 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 10, 1989 | Australia | 6 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 8, 1989 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 2, 1989 | Pakistan | 38 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 11, 1988 | Australia | 9 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 14, 1988 | No result | – |
| akistan vs Australia ODI, Nov 4, 1987 | Australia | 18 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Apr 3, 1987 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 2, 1987 | Pakistan | 1 wicket |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Apr 11, 1986 | Pakistan | 8 wickets |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Feb 24, 1985 | Pakistan | 62 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 30, 1984 | Australia | 70 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 25, 1984 | Australia | 87 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 21, 1984 | Australia | 43 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 15, 1984 | No result | – |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Jan 10, 1984 | Australia | 34 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 22, 1982 | No result | – |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Oct 8, 1982 | Pakistan | 28 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia ODI, Sep 20, 1982 | Pakistan | 59 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 14, 1982 | Australia | 76 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jan 9, 1982 | Pakistan | 25 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 17, 1981 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Dec 6, 1981 | Australia | 38 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Nov 22, 1981 | Pakistan | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 13-14, 1979 | Pakistan | 89 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan ODI, Jun 7, 1975 | Australia | 73 runs |
Australia vs Pakistan T20I Matches Timeline
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T20 cricket has added a fresh dimension to the rivalry. With its fast-paced nature, T20Is between these teams often go down to the wire.
| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Nov 14, 2024 | Australia | 29 runs |
| Pakistan vs Australia T20I, Apr 5, 2022 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Nov 11, 2021 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Nov 8, 2019 | Australia | 10 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Nov 5, 2019 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Nov 3, 2019 | No result | – |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Oct 28, 2018 | Pakistan | 33 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Oct 26, 2018 | Pakistan | 11 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Oct 24, 2018 | Pakistan | 66 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Jul 8, 2018 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Jul 5, 2018 | Pakistan | 45 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Jul 2, 2018 | Australia | 9 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Mar 25, 2016 | Australia | 21 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Oct 5, 2014 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Mar 23, 2014 | Pakistan | 16 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Oct 2, 2012 | Pakistan | 32 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Sep 10, 2012 | Australia | 94 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Sep 7, 2012 | Tied | – |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Sep 5, 2012 | Pakistan | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Jul 6, 2010 | Pakistan | 11 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Jul 5, 2010 | Pakistan | 23 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, May 14, 2010 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, May 2, 2010 | Australia | 34 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Feb 5, 2010 | Australia | 2 runs |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, May 7, 2009 | Pakistan | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs Pakistan T20I, Sep 18, 2007 | Pakistan | 6 wickets |
Key Moments in the Australia vs Pakistan Rivalry
Iconic Test Match Moments
- Karachi Test, 1994: Pakistan’s thrilling one-wicket win, led by Inzamam-ul-Haq’s brilliance.
- Lahore Test, 1980: Imran Khan’s 12-wicket haul powered Pakistan to a memorable victory.
Memorable ODI Moments
- 1999 World Cup Final: Australia’s dominance with a crushing 8-wicket win.
- 2022 ODI Series in Pakistan: Pakistan’s historic series win on home soil.
Thrilling T20 Encounters
- 2010 T20 World Cup Semi-final: Michael Hussey’s incredible knock sealed a last-over win for Australia.
- 2021 T20 World Cup Semi-final: Matthew Wade’s heroics propelled Australia to the final.
Conclusion: The Future of the Rivalry
As cricket evolves, the rivalry between Australia and Pakistan continues to thrive. With emerging talents on both sides, the future promises more intense and captivating contests.
Whether it’s the steely determination of Australia or the flamboyant unpredictability of Pakistan, fans can always expect thrilling action when these two teams meet.
FAQ
When did Australia and Pakistan play their first Test match?
They played their first Test in 1956 in Pakistan.
Who has won more Test matches between Australia and Pakistan?
Australia has won 35 Test matches, while Pakistan has won 15.
Which team has the upper hand in ODIs?
Australia leads with 68 wins, compared to Pakistan’s 34.
How many T20Is have been played between Australia and Pakistan?
They have played 29 T20Is, with Australia winning 14 and Pakistan 10.
What is the most dominant Test series win in this rivalry?
Australia’s 3-0 clean sweeps in 1972/73, 1999/00, and several other series.
Has Pakistan ever defeated Australia in Australia?
Yes, Pakistan won the Test series 1-0 in 1978/79.
What is Australia’s win percentage in ODIs against Pakistan?
Australia has a win percentage of 63.55% in ODIs.
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