PAK vs AUS: PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi reacts after Pakistan's first ODI defeat to Australia

Despite the heartbreaking outcome, Naqvi praised the players for their resilience and effort throughout the match

PHOTO: PCB

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, has expressed his support for the national team following their narrow defeat to Australia in the first One Day International (ODI) on Monday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite the heartbreaking outcome, Naqvi praised the players for their resilience and effort throughout the match.

Taking to social media platform 'X,' Naqvi wrote, "Well done Pakistan Team for fighting a tough match against Australia! You boys gave it your all and fought in the best possible way. It's only the first match, and we're confident you'll make us proud. Keep pushing."

In a match characterized by tight competition, Australia won the toss and elected to bowl first. Pakistan struggled to establish a strong innings, concluding at 203 runs in 46.4 overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan emerged as the top scorer for Pakistan, accumulating 44 runs off 71 balls. Fast bowler Naseem Shah also made a notable contribution with a quickfire 40 runs off 39 deliveries.

Australia’s Mitchell Starc was a key figure in the match, claiming three wickets and earning the Player of the Match award, while his teammates Pat Cummins and Adam Zampa each secured two wickets.

Chasing a modest target, Australia initially faced challenges with regular wickets falling. However, Pat Cummins’ impressive batting performance steadied the innings, allowing Australia to reach 207 for 8 in just 34 overs. Pakistani bowlers showcased their skills, with Haris Rauf taking three wickets and Shaheen Afridi contributing with two, while both Naseem and Hasan Ali picked 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, including 17 wides and four leg byes—crucial missteps in a low-scoring affair.

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.