Fri Nov 08 05:37:35 UTC 2024: ## Australia Stumble After Strong Start, Pakistan Take Control in First ODI

**Perth, Australia:** Australia got off to a strong start in the first ODI against Pakistan, but a series of wickets saw them lose momentum and ultimately struggle to reach a competitive total.

Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk provided a blistering start, hitting several boundaries early on. However, the introduction of Shaheen Afridi proved to be a turning point, as he dismissed Fraser-McGurk and then Matthew Short, leaving Australia at 31/2.

Steven Smith and Josh Inglis steadied the ship, with Inglis reaching his first ODI fifty. The pair looked set to build a substantial partnership, but a flurry of wickets saw Australia lose their way once again.

Haris Rauf proved to be the most effective bowler for Pakistan, taking three crucial wickets, including those of Smith and Inglis. The Aussie tail wagged briefly thanks to a late six from Aaron Hardie, but ultimately Pakistan’s bowlers were able to restrict them to a total of 205.

Pakistan will now be looking to chase down the target, and they will be confident of doing so after a dominant bowling display. The second ODI is scheduled for Tuesday.

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