Melbourne, November 4, 2024 – In a tightly contested first ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia managed to defeat Pakistan by just two wickets. Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan set a target of 203 runs. Rizwan was the standout performer, scoring 44 runs, while lower-order contributions from Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah added valuable runs. Pakistan’s top order struggled, with Babar Azam contributing 37 runs before being dismissed by a brilliant delivery from Adam Zampa.
Australia’s bowling attack was effective, with Mitchell Starc taking three wickets, Adam Zampa and Pat Cummins claimed two wickets each.
In response, Australia started strongly but faced a significant collapse after being well-placed. Key partnerships, particularly between Josh Inglis and Steven Smith, were disrupted when Haris Rauf struck, taking three quick wickets and leaving Australia reeling at 155 for 7. However, Pat Cummins demonstrated great composure to guide his team to victory, supported by Mitchell Starc.
With this win, Australia takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, with the next match scheduled for November 8 in Adelaide.
