By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
In an exhilarating start to Australia’s home cricket season, captain Pat Cummins anchored his side to a nail-biting two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first one-day international (ODI) in Melbourne. The match, marked by thrilling moments and high-pressure plays, saw Australia recover from a late collapse in their chase of Pakistan’s total of 203 runs, ultimately achieving victory with 16.3 overs remaining.
Australia’s chase started strongly, thanks to a steady partnership between Steve Smith and Josh Inglis. The duo added 85 runs, building a foundation that positioned Australia well ahead of the required rate. Smith's fluent 44 runs showcased his mastery, particularly as he recently moved back to his preferred number four position in the Test lineup. Inglis also played a crucial role, contributing 49 runs before falling victim to Pakistan’s relentless pace attack led by Haris Rauf, who took 3-67 in his ten-over spell. However, Australia’s pursuit of 204 was derailed as Pakistan’s bowlers launched a fierce counterattack. In a span of just five deliveries, Australia lost Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, and Glenn Maxwell, triggering a slide from 113-2 to 155-7. This sudden collapse brought Pakistan back into contention, with the boisterous support of their fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground adding to the intensity.
In the face of mounting pressure, Cummins took charge, putting together a vital 30-run partnership with Sean Abbott to halt Pakistan’s momentum. Displaying composure, Cummins orchestrated the recovery, playing cautiously yet assertively to bring Australia within striking distance of the target. Abbott’s dismissal came via an unfortunate run-out as he attempted a third run on Cummins' call, ending his contribution at 13 runs. With Australia’s tail exposed, Cummins continued his captain’s knock, finishing unbeaten on 32 runs off 31 balls. His steady performance was instrumental in guiding Australia to 204-8, sealing the victory and securing an early advantage in the three-match ODI series.
Mitchell Starc, Australia’s veteran pacer, played a crucial dual role in this match. With the ball, he delivered an impressive spell, taking 3-33 to dismantle Pakistan’s middle order. Starc's efforts were pivotal in restricting Pakistan to a modest 203 in 46.4 overs. His strong bowling complemented Cummins’ 2-39, as the Australian attack proved too formidable for Pakistan’s batters. Later, Starc was called upon again with the bat, joining Cummins in the final overs. Reflecting on the match, Starc noted, “We probably didn’t like that Patty and I had pads on, but a win is a win no matter how you get there.” His presence and experience alongside Cummins added confidence to Australia’s tail-end, exemplifying his value as an all-rounder.
Pakistan’s batting innings was a mix of struggles and short-lived recoveries, with top-scorers like Mohammad Rizwan (44) and captain Babar Azam (37) providing brief resistance. Pakistan was in a precarious position at 148-7 before Naseem Shah delivered an entertaining cameo. Batting at number nine, Naseem hammered 40 runs off 39 balls, including four sixes, which allowed Pakistan to surpass 200. His effort gave Pakistan's bowlers a fighting chance and energized the team’s morale heading into Australia’s chase. The ODI series, which features two more matches, marks a vital warm-up for both teams as Australia and Pakistan gear up for an intense season. Australia will look to build on this victory to establish dominance early in their home season, while Pakistan will aim to bounce back and level the series.
As Cummins and his team celebrate a winning start, this thrilling first ODI has set the stage for a highly competitive series, showcasing the intensity and skill that fans can expect throughout Australia’s summer of cricket.
