Extra runs cost Pakistan? Mohammad Rizwan reflects on four-pacer strategy after first ODI loss to Australia

Pakistan's newly appointed white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, has opened up after the team's nail-biting loss to Australia in the first ODI on Monday. The match, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, ended in disappointment for the Men in Green, who fell short despite a valiant effort.

During the post-match press conference, Rizwan reflected on the team’s performance: “We decided that regardless of the situation, we would fight and show courage. It was a good contest, but in a match like this, you can't draw too many conclusions. The result is in God's hands, but I am proud of the fight we put up.”

The wicketkeeper batter, who took charge of the captaincy, emphasized his focus on field placements during the game. He credited both teams' bowlers for their performances, highlighting Rauf’s exceptional bowling: “Haris Rauf bowled very well. As a bowling group, we aimed to rely on our four seamers and not extend to a fifth or sixth bowler. Unfortunately, luck favored Australia today.”

In a match where Australia won the toss and opted to bowl first, Pakistan struggled to build a substantial innings, managing only 203 runs in 46.4 overs. Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan with 44 runs off 71 balls, while Naseem Shah contributed a commendable 40 runs off 39 deliveries.

Mitchell Starc was a standout performer for Australia, earning the Player of the Match award with a haul of three wickets, while Pat Cummins and Adam Zampa each claimed two wickets.

Chasing a modest target, Australia faced early pressure, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Pat Cummins’ remarkable innings guided the hosts past Pakistan’s total, as Australia finished at 207 for 8 in just 34 overs. Rauf notched up three wickets for Pakistan, while Shaheen Afridi added two, and both Naseem and Hasnain claimed one wicket each.

Despite Rizwan’s strategic decision to field an all-pace attack, it backfired as the bowlers conceded 21 extra runs, including 17 wides and four leg byes, which proved costly in a low-scoring match.

With this victory, Australia leads the three-match ODI series 1-0, with the second match set to take place in Adelaide on November 8.