Pakistan Vs Australia 1st ODI: Babar's Unwanted Record

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Post on Nov 04, 2024

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Babar's Unwanted Record: Pakistan Stumbles in 1st ODI Against Australia

The first One Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore delivered a thrilling contest, with Australia emerging victorious in a nail-biting finish. However, the match also saw a disappointing milestone for Pakistan captain Babar Azam, as he became the first Pakistan captain to lose his first six ODI matches against Australia.

The match began with Australia winning the toss and electing to field first. Pakistan's batting faltered early, with Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman falling cheaply. However, a crucial partnership between Babar and Mohammad Rizwan stabilized the innings. Rizwan, in particular, played a brilliant knock, scoring 104 runs off 114 balls, including 12 fours and a six.

Babar, despite facing criticism for his recent form, contributed a valuable 67 runs off 85 balls. However, his innings lacked the usual fluidity and aggression that fans have come to expect from him.

Despite Rizwan's century, Pakistan's total of 288 runs was ultimately not enough to secure victory. The Australian bowlers, led by Sean Abbott and Mitchell Starc, who took three wickets each, put on a disciplined performance.

The chase was never easy for Australia, with Pakistan's bowlers putting up a strong fight. Shaheen Shah Afridi, returning to the side after a long injury layoff, bowled with great intensity and picked up two wickets. However, Australia's middle order, led by a composed 90 from Travis Head, proved too strong for Pakistan's bowlers.

In the end, Australia clinched victory with four wickets in hand with five balls remaining. The victory, however, came at a cost, with Marcus Stoinis, who played a crucial innings, retiring hurt after suffering a hamstring injury.

While the match provided plenty of entertainment, it also highlighted Pakistan's current struggle against Australia in ODIs. Babar's unwanted record adds another layer to the team's woes, and the question now arises about whether Pakistan can overcome this psychological hurdle. The next two ODIs in the series will provide valuable insights into the team's ability to bounce back.

Key Takeaways from the Match:

• Babar Azam's disappointing record against Australia in ODIs.
• Mohammad Rizwan's impressive century for Pakistan.
• The return of Shaheen Shah Afridi to the Pakistan bowling lineup.
• Australia's middle-order strength and Travis Head's crucial innings.

The series is far from over, and Pakistan will be hoping for a turnaround in the coming matches. However, the first ODI has served as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for the team.