Australia captain Pat Cummins held on to his nerves and steered his side to a thrilling two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first ODI of the three-match series here at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Monday.
Cummins remained unbeaten on 32 as Australia chased the 204-run target in 33.3 overs at the loss of eight wickets.
Pakistan’s top order crumbled against the likes of Mitchell Starc’s brilliant spell as Australia bundle Pakistan for a meagre 203 in the first ODI of the three-match series here at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Monday.
Mitchell Starc gave Australia the desired start after they opted to field as he removed both openers inside seven overs with 24 runs on the board.
Babar Azam played a 37-run knock from 44 balls and added 39 runs for the third wicket with Mohammad Rizwan before getting bowled by Adam Zampa.
Kamran Ghulam could add only runs with one boundary as he fell prey to Pat Cummins’ well-directed bouncer in the next over.
Meanwhile, Sean Abbott removed Salman Ali (12) to leave Pakistan struggling at 101-5.
