Australia edged out Pakistan by two wickets in the first ODI of the three-match series in Melbourne on Monday. Chasing Pakistan’s 203-run total, Australia encountered some challenges but managed to secure the win.
Pakistan’s innings faced struggles early on as openers Saim Ayub (1) and Abdullah Shafique (12) fell quickly. Babar Azam showed promise, scoring 37 before Adam Zampa bowled him with a full-length delivery. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan top-scored with 44, while Naseem Shah’s quick 40-run cameo boosted Pakistan to 203. Shaheen Afridi added a valuable 24, and debutant Irfan Niazi was run out on 22.
Australia’s chase saw a sudden collapse from 139/3 to 139/6 as Haris Rauf took three wickets, with Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah taking two and one, respectively. Despite the setback, Australia recovered and achieved the target. Mitchell Starc took three wickets, while Pat Cummins and Adam Zampa each claimed two for Australia.
