Pakistan Defeat Australia by Five Wickets in Historic ODI

RAWALPINDI: (Web Desk) – Pakistan began their three-match ODI series against Australia with a convincing five-wicket victory in Rawalpindi, taking a 1-0 lead in the series and marking a memorable milestone in the country’s 1,000th One-Day International.

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi opted to field first, a decision that paid off as Australia were bowled out for 200 runs in 45 overs.

For Australia, Matthew Renshaw top-scored with 61 runs, while Matt Short contributed 55. Matthew Kuhnemann added 24 runs.

Pakistan’s standout performer was debutant Arafat Minhas, who delivered a match-winning spell of 5 wickets for 32 runs. Abrar Ahmed claimed two wickets, while Shaheen Afridi, Salman Ali Agha and Haris Rauf picked up one wicket each.

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In reply, Pakistan comfortably chased down the 201-run target in the 43rd over with five wickets in hand.

Former captain Babar Azam anchored the innings with a composed 69, while wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Ghazi Ghori impressed with 65 runs. Sahibzada Farhan chipped in with 28, while Arafat Minhas capped off a dream debut with an unbeaten 18 runs.

The victory gave Pakistan a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series, with the second ODI scheduled to be played in Lahore on June 2.

The match also carried historical significance as Pakistan became only the third team in international cricket history to feature in 1,000 ODI matches, joining Australia national cricket team and India national cricket team in the exclusive club.