In a thrilling encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia triumphed over Pakistan by two wickets in the first ODI of the three-match series. Chasing a modest target of 204, Australia reached the finish line in 33.3 overs, thanks to captain Pat Cummins’ composed knock of 32 off 31 balls, anchoring the lower order after a dramatic collapse.
Pakistan’s pacers put up a formidable fight, with Haris Rauf taking 3-67, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah claimed crucial early wickets, reducing Australia to 28-2. However, Steve Smith (44 off 46) and Josh Inglis (49 off 42) stabilized the innings with an 85-run third-wicket stand. Haris then sparked a collapse, taking key wickets and leaving Australia in trouble at 155-7.
With the match in the balance, Cummins and Sean Abbott (13) added 30 runs, and despite Abbott’s run-out, Cummins held his nerve alongside Mitchell Starc to guide Australia home with 19 balls to spare.
Earlier, Pakistan, after being sent in to bat, managed only 203 in 46.4 overs. Mohammad Rizwan led with 44, supported by Babar Azam (37) and a late flurry from Naseem Shah (40 off 39). Mitchell Starc starred with the ball for Australia, taking 3-33 in a disciplined display.
Australia now leads the series 1-0, with the second ODI set for 8 November at Adelaide Oval.
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