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Australia vs Pakistan ODI
Australia edged out Pakistan in a gripping finish to the 1st ODI in Melbourne (Australia vs Pakistan ODI), securing a tense 2-wicket victory in a low-scoring match. Chasing a target of 204, Pat Cummins’ side had to dig deep as Pakistan’s bowlers put up a fierce fight, making it a memorable encounter for cricket fans. Despite the loss, Pakistan showed resilience in both batting and bowling, led by their new ODI captain, Mohammad Rizwan. Australia vs Pakistan ODI.
Australia’s Chasing Troubles and Rauf’s Scare
Australia’s chase did not go as smoothly as they had hoped. Pakistan’s pace attack, spearheaded by Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi, quickly dismissed the openers, Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk. Steve Smith (44) and Josh Inglis (49) then anchored the innings, taking Australia close to their target. However, Haris Rauf’s impactful spell, claiming the wickets of Glenn Maxwell and Marnus Labuschagne in quick succession, threw a wrench in Australia’s plans, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive.
As the pressure mounted, Aaron Hardie fell to Mohammad Hasnain, and Pat Cummins was run-out, leaving Australia teetering just short of victory. Even with the setbacks, Cummins and his men held on, finishing the chase with just two wickets remaining and taking an early lead in the series.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles Continue Australia vs Pakistan ODI
The match was a challenging one for Pakistan’s top-order. Opener Abdullah Shafique (12) and Saim Ayub (1) were both sent back to the pavilion early, courtesy of Mitchell Starc’s pace. Skipper Babar Azam showed glimpses of his classic form, scoring a steady 37 before falling to Adam Zampa. Despite the early setbacks, Rizwan took on the responsibility, scoring a crucial 44 and steadying the innings with help from the lower order.
Naseem Shah Shines in Pakistan’s Late Surge
Just as Australia seemed in control, Naseem Shah provided late fireworks, smashing four sixes and a boundary to reach an impressive 40. Contributions from Irfan Khan (22) and Shaheen Afridi (27) helped Pakistan push past the 200 mark, ending their innings at 203. Starc was the standout for Australia with three wickets, while Cummins and Zampa claimed two apiece.
What’s Next in the Series?
The close result adds excitement to the remaining ODIs as both teams aim to outdo each other. Australia holds a 1-0 lead, but Pakistan’s fighting spirit, despite the loss, has set the tone for a thrilling series. Fans are eagerly awaiting the second ODI, where Pakistan will look to bounce back, and Australia will aim to tighten their hold on the series.
