Adelaide:
The “Men in Yellow” have set up an explosive semi-final clash with the “Men in Blue” at SCG, after beating “Men in Green” comprehensively by six wickets in the third quarterfinals at Adelaide.
Chasing a modest total of 214, Australia overcome a shaky start to go past the finishing line in 33.5 overs. Earlier, Josh Hazlewood shattered Pakistan with his line and length, was also declared Man of the Match.
Dependable Steve Smith top-scored for the Kangaroos 65 of 69 balls, consisting of seven fours, while Watson carefully crafted 64 of 66 balls to help Australia to book a berth in semis.
Pakistan have to blame themselves for the debacle as they put down two easy catches, allowing the hosts to move out of a shaky position.
Aussies had a bad start as they lost both its openers and skipper early. Wahab was in top form, generating pace and bounce from a good batting track. Waston shared 89 runs partnership with Smith for the fourth wicket before Maxwell’s quick fire 44 steer hosts to the semis.
Earlier, electing to bat first Pakistan was bundled out for paltry 213 runs. Haris Sohail was the top scorer, notched up 41 runs of 57 balls.
Mitchell Starc snared two wickets and became the leading wicket-taker in the tournament. Maxwell was suspiring package to take two wickets in his 7 overs giving away 43 runs.
