Australia narrowly wins first ODI by 2 wickets despite Pakistan’s solid bowling effort

Australia secured a narrow 20-run win over Pakistan in the opening ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite a solid bowling performance from Pakistan, Australia managed to chase down the target and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The match began on Monday with Australia winning the toss and opting to field. 

Pakistan was bowled out for 203 runs in 46.4 overs, while Australia achieved the target of 204 runs in 33.3 overs.

Early dismissals included Saim Ayub for 1 and Abdullah Shafiq for 12, both claimed by Mitchell Starc. 

BBabar Azam was sent packing by Adam Zampa after scoring 37 runs, while Kamran Ghulam added 5 before being dismissed by Pat Cummins.

Salman Ali Agha fell for 12 to Sean Abbott, and captain Muhammad Rizwan scored a commendable 44 before being taken out by Marnus Labuschagne. 

Shaheen Afridi added 24 off Starc, while Irfan Khan and Naseem Shah contributed 22 and 40 runs respectively, with Haris Rauf dismissed for 0 by Adam Zampa.

Pakistan men’s cricket team is currently in Melbourne to play a six-match series against Australia, consisting of three ODIs and three T20Is. 

The series commenced today, November 4th, with Australia taking a 1-0 lead in the ODI series.