Pakistan top-order batter, Kamran Ghulam succumbed to an exceptional delivery from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins during the first ODI in the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Managing only 5 runs off 6 balls, Ghulam faced a well-executed bouncer that aimed straight for his nostrils.
Kamran Ghulam’s short-lived stint ends by Pat Cummins
On the last delivery of the 19th over, Cummins unleashed a rapid ball clocked at 142.7 km/h, testing Ghulam’s reflexes. Attempting to evade the fierce delivery, Ghulam misjudged its trajectory, awkwardly positioning himself in an unsuccessful attempt to sidestep it. In his effort to escape the oncoming ball, he inadvertently gloved it, leading to a straightforward catch for wicketkeeper Josh Inglis. This pivotal dismissal came at a critical juncture, leaving Pakistan reeling at 70/4 in their innings. With Ghulam’s exit, the onus shifted to the remaining batters to stabilize the innings and forge a competitive total against a disciplined Australian bowling attack.
Here’s the video:
Pat Cummins wins the battle 🤫#AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/zSJWnriUjD
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 4, 2024
Also READ: AUS vs PAK 2024, 3 ODIs: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, Pakistan, USA, UK & other countries
Pakistan struggles in early overs against Australia
Australia won the toss and elected to field first, putting Pakistan under immediate pressure from a disciplined bowling attack. The visitors faced a challenging start, with the early dismissals of openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique setting a precarious tone for the innings. Both batter fell cheaply, Ayub to a stunning delivery from Mitchell Starc and Shafique to the ever-reliable Cummins.
Babar, Pakistan’s captain, managed to stabilize the innings momentarily, scoring 37 runs before being dismissed by Adam Zampa. Currently, Mohammad Rizwan is at the crease, holding the innings together with an unbeaten 31 runs, while Salman Agha has contributed 11 runs. The pair is looking to build a crucial partnership to recover the innings.
Australia’s bowlers have showcased impressive performances, with Starc leading the charge by claiming two wickets for just 27 runs in his eight overs. His ability to extract bounce and movement has troubled the Pakistan batters significantly. Pat Cummins has also been effective, maintaining pressure with figures of one for 28 in seven overs. Sean Abbott has bowled economically, conceding only 17 runs in his four overs, while Zampa provided vital support, breaking the partnership at a critical juncture with his wicket of Babar.