Australia set a target of 368 runs for Pakistan. However, Pakistan's entire team was out for 305 runs in 45.3 overs. Adam Zampa was Australia's most successful bowler with 4 wickets in 10 overs, while Pat Cummins and Marcus Stoinis took 2 wickets each. For Pakistan, Imam-ul-Haq scored 70 runs and Abdullah Shafique scored 64 runs. Australia's solid opening with David Warner and Mitchell Marsh both scoring centuries played a crucial role in their victory.
Australia Dominates Pakistan in High-Scoring Clash
In an enthralling encounter at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Australia comprehensively defeated Pakistan by 62 runs in the first One-Day International (ODI) of the three-match series.
Match Summary
Chasing Australia's imposing total of 368 runs, Pakistan's batting order crumbled under pressure. Despite valiant efforts from opener Imam-ul-Haq (70) and middle-order batsman Abdullah Shafique (64), the hosts could only muster 305 runs before being bowled out in 45.3 overs.
Australia's bowlers displayed exceptional discipline and control throughout the innings. Adam Zampa emerged as the standout performer with impressive figures of 4 for 50 in 10 overs. Pat Cummins and Marcus Stoinis also chipped in with two wickets each.
Australian Dominance
Australia's emphatic victory was largely attributed to their solid opening partnership between David Warner and Mitchell Marsh. Warner, known for his explosive batting, smashed a fiery 104 off 92 deliveries, while Marsh played a more composed innings, scoring 110 off 93 balls.
The duo's 185-run partnership set the tone for Australia's innings, providing a strong foundation for the rest of the batting order. Steven Smith and Marcus Stoinis also contributed with valuable half-centuries, ensuring Australia ended their innings with a formidable score.
Pakistan's Struggles
Pakistan's batting woes continued throughout the match. The top order failed to provide a consistent platform, as captain Babar Azam fell early to Mitchell Starc. While Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique showed some resistance, the middle order collapsed under Australia's relentless pressure.
The hosts' bowling attack also struggled to contain Australia's aggressive batsmen. Both Mohammad Wasim and Haris Rauf proved to be expensive, while the spinners failed to make an impact.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Who was the Player of the Match? Mitchell Marsh, for his match-winning century (110) and excellent fielding.
2. What was the highest score by an Australian batsman? David Warner (104)
3. How many wickets did Adam Zampa take? 4 wickets for 50 runs
4. What was Pakistan's highest individual score? Imam-ul-Haq (70)
5. What was the winning margin? 62 runs
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