Mon Nov 04 11:29:22 UTC 2024: ## Cummins Leads Australia to Thrilling Two-Wicket Win Over Pakistan in Melbourne
**Melbourne, Australia -** Australia’s captain Pat Cummins delivered a match-winning all-round performance to guide his team to a nail-biting two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Monday.
The win gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the series.
After being asked to bat first, Pakistan struggled against the Australian pace attack on a lively pitch and were dismissed for 203 in 46.4 overs. Starc took the early wickets of both openers, while Rauf’s late spell nearly turned the tide.
Australia initially appeared to be cruising towards their target, reaching 113-2 after 16.2 overs. However, a flurry of wickets from Pakistan’s fast bowlers brought the world champions back into the contest.
Cummins, however, remained calm under pressure, scoring a crucial 32 runs, including four boundaries, and taking two wickets. He finished the chase alongside fellow fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who was named Man of the Match for his three-wicket haul.
“Tonight we got it done,” Cummins said after the match. “I always much prefer sitting in the changing room, but a wonderful match. It got a bit tighter than we would have liked in the end.”
Pakistan’s innings was anchored by Rizwan’s 44 and a late flourish from Naseem Shah (40) and Afridi (24). Babar Azam, who returned to the lineup after being dropped for the second and third Tests against England, made 37 runs before being bowled by Zampa.
Despite a valiant effort from Pakistan, Australia’s captain once again proved his mettle, proving instrumental in securing a win from a precarious situation. The two teams will now face off in the second ODI on Wednesday in Sydney.
First Piper 