Australia edged out Pakistan by two wickets in a thrilling encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), securing a 1-0 lead in their ODI series. Chasing a modest target of 204, Australia faced resistance from Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly Haris Rauf, but captain Pat Cummins anchored the chase with an unbeaten 32, sealing the win in a tense finish.
Pakistan Sets a Challenging Target
Pakistan’s innings saw a mix of resilience and struggle on the fast and bouncy MCG pitch. Openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, both new to the ODI format, were dismissed early by a fierce Mitchell Starc, who finished with 3 for 33. Pakistan’s star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan initially steadied the innings but failed to accelerate, with Babar falling to Adam Zampa for 37. Rizwan top-scored with a cautious 44 before a mistimed sweep led to his dismissal.
A Roller-Coaster Performance
Late fireworks from Pakistan’s lower order, especially Naseem Shah, who hit four sixes in his 40 off 39 balls, gave Pakistan a fighting total of 203. Shaheen Afridi and Irfan Khan joined the tail-end charge, with Naseem and Shaheen contributing five sixes combined, lifting Pakistan from 117 for 6.
Australia’s Chasing Struggles
Australia’s chase began shakily, with openers Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk falling within four overs. Steve Smith and Josh Inglis then built a solid partnership, adding 85 runs and steadying the chase. However, Rauf’s fiery spell dismantled Australia’s middle order, claiming the crucial wickets of Labuschagne and Maxwell in quick succession and reducing the hosts to 155 for 7.
In the end, it was Cummins’ composure that proved vital. Despite losing Sean Abbott to a run-out, the Australian captain held his ground, clinching victory and frustrating a spirited Pakistan side. Starc’s stellar bowling performance and Cummins’ finishing touch were instrumental in Australia’s win, leaving Pakistan to ponder missed opportunities in a game that nearly swung in their favor.
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