PAK vs AUS: Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Hafeez, and Rashid Latif react after Pakistan's defeat in first ODI against Australia

The first ODI between Pakistan and Australia ended in disappointment for the Men in Green as they lost a thrilling contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Monday. Following the match, former Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Hafeez and Rashid Latif, along with left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir, shared their insights on the team's performance.

Former wicketkeeper-batter and captain Rashid Latif has praised the team's fighting spirit.

"Pakistan made a tremendous fightback and enjoyed it thoroughly. It's a success for Pakistan. This pitch wasn't easy to bat on; not only did the Pakistani batters struggle, but the Australian batters did too," Latif remarked, highlighting the challenges faced by both sides.

Former all-rounder and team director Mohammad Hafeez has expressed his support for the players via social media platform 'X.'

"A spirited fighting show from team Pakistan in the 1st ODI vs Australia at MCG. Mohammad Rizwan did pretty well as captain. Keep your heads up, guys. Well done," Hafeez posted, acknowledging the team's efforts despite the loss.

Mohammad Amir, who made his comeback to the national team during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA, also commented on the match.

"Yes, we lost the game, but it was a brilliant fightback from Pakistan. Rizwan did a great job," Amir stated, underscoring the resilience shown by the players.

Chasing a modest target of 204 runs, Australia initially faced difficulties, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, an impressive batting performance from Pat Cummins steadied the innings, allowing Australia to chase down the target after losing eight wickets inside the 34th over. Pakistani bowlers showcased their skills, with Haris Rauf taking three wickets, Shaheen Afridi contributing two, and both Naseem Shah and Mohammad Hasnain picking up one wicket each.

Despite Rizwan’s tactical decision to field an all-pace attack, the strategy backfired, as the bowlers conceded 21 extra runs—17 wides and four leg byes—crucial missteps in a low-scoring affair that could have altered the game's outcome.

With this victory, Australia takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The second match is scheduled to be held in Adelaide on November 8, where Pakistan will aim to bounce back and level the series.