A fierce spell by Mitchell Starc and a composed captain’s knock from Pat Cummins ensured Australia secured a two-wicket win over Pakistan in a thrilling ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Despite a formidable challenge from Haris Rauf and crucial contributions from Naseem Shah, Pakistan fell just short of pulling off an unforgettable heist. Here’s how this nail-biting match unfolded.
A Packed MCG Witnesses High Drama
The MCG, known for its rich history and dramatic matches, was again the stage for a pulsating cricket clash. A crowd of 25,831 created an electric atmosphere, dominated by passionate Pakistan fans who cheered relentlessly. The game ebbed and flowed as both sides produced moments of brilliance, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Australia’s Tumultuous Chase
Chasing a modest target of 204, Australia stumbled early. The new opening pair of Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk failed to make an impact, both falling within the first four overs. Fraser-McGurk’s 16 was a frantic innings, and when he departed, the pressure was squarely on Australia. However, Steven Smith played a calming role, expertly handling Pakistan’s pace attack on a bouncy pitch.
Smith and Josh Inglis built a promising partnership of 85 runs. Inglis survived an early scare when he was dropped by Irfan Khan at gully off a Naseem Shah delivery. Taking full advantage of this reprieve, Inglis smashed three sixes and two boundaries, punishing any short balls bowled by Pakistan’s pace quartet. But just when Australia seemed in control, Pakistan struck back.
Haris Rauf’s Fiery Spell Turns the Game
Rauf, a fan favorite at the MCG from his time with the Melbourne Stars, delivered a game-changing spell. With Australia cruising at 139 for 3, Rauf dismissed Labuschagne, Maxwell, and Inglis in quick succession, reducing Australia to 139 for 6. Labuschagne’s top edge and Maxwell’s nick to the keeper left Australia reeling, while Inglis fell to a brilliant catch by Irfan in the deep.
Aaron Hardie and Sean Abbott tried to steady the ship, but Pakistan’s relentless bowling kept the pressure on. Hardie fell to Mohammad Hasnain, and a mix-up between Cummins and Abbott resulted in a run-out, making it 185 for 8. With Pakistan sensing a famous victory, Cummins held firm.
Cummins’ Steely Resolve Seals the Win
Cummins, renowned for his calm under pressure, delivered once again. Despite being bombarded with short balls, he remained composed, collecting crucial runs and ensuring he was there at the finish. His unbeaten 32 was not his most spectacular innings, but it was a testament to his grit and determination. Australia eventually crossed the line, breaking the hearts of Pakistan’s fans.
Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s batting lineup failed to adapt to the fast, bouncy conditions at the MCG. After being sent in to bat, Pakistan’s top order crumbled against a formidable Australian pace attack led by Mitchell Starc and Cummins. Starc, clocking speeds of 140kph, dismissed debutant Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, reducing Pakistan to a precarious position.
Babar Azam showed glimpses of his class with a stylish 37 off 44 balls but fell trying to force the pace against Adam Zampa. Mohammad Rizwan, the newly appointed captain, anchored the innings with 44 off 71 deliveries but struggled to accelerate. His innings ended when he top-edged a sweep shot off Marnus Labuschagne onto his helmet, resulting in a simple catch for Inglis.
Lower-Order Heroics Lift Pakistan
At 117 for 6, Pakistan looked destined for a sub-150 score. However, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi provided a spirited fightback. Naseem, batting at No. 9, smashed four sixes in a stunning 40 off 39 balls, punishing the spinners and keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive. Shaheen added a quick-fire 24, including several powerful hits.
Their partnership, along with some late aggression from Irfan Khan, pushed Pakistan to a respectable 203. Starc returned to clean up Shaheen, finishing with figures of 3 for 33, while Cummins also played a key role with 2 for 39. Despite their efforts, Pakistan’s total seemed below par on a true MCG wicket.
Starc and Cummins Set the Tone
Australia’s bowlers set up the win by exploiting Pakistan’s weakness against pace. Starc was at his menacing best, using bounce and pace to unsettle the batters. Cummins backed him up with aggressive short-pitched bowling, which kept Pakistan’s innings from gaining any momentum.
In the end, it was a collective bowling effort and Cummins’ composed finish that secured the win for Australia. While Pakistan came tantalizingly close, they were left to rue missed opportunities and lapses in the field. The contest showcased cricket at its best—unpredictable, thrilling, and full of dramatic twists.
