Australia win 2 wickets Pakistan

Australia took a 1-0 lead in their ODI series after defeating Pakistan by 2 wickets in a closely contested first match. The game, held in Melbourne on November 4, saw Pakistan batting first and setting a target of 204 runs. However, they struggled early as Australia’s Mitchell Starc dismissed openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, setting the tone with his impressive bowling performance.

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Pakistan’s Babar Azam managed a steady 37 runs before being bowled by Adam Zampa, while skipper Mohammad Rizwan contributed with a top score of 44 runs. The lower order, including Naseem Shah, added some crucial runs, taking the team total to 203, though they were bowled out with 20 balls still remaining.

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In response, Australia’s openers faced some initial setbacks, losing both at a score of 28. Steven Smith and Josh Inglis then combined for a vital 85-run partnership, scoring 44 and 49, respectively, to stabilize the innings. Australia encountered further challenges as they quickly lost a few more wickets, reaching 155 for 7 at one stage. Yet, Pat Cummins’ unbeaten 32 runs helped guide Australia over the line with 99 balls to spare. Mitchell Starc’s brilliant 3-wicket haul earned him the title of Player of the Match.

This win has given Australia a promising start in the series, leaving Pakistan with areas to improve ahead of the upcoming matches.