Ultra-aggressive Australia almost fumbled a certain victory but eventually steadied after a lightning quick spell from Haris Rauf to beat Pakistan by two wickets in the first ODI at the MCG.
Chasing just 204, Australia crumbled to 139 for six in the 21st over as Rauf skittled the middle order, when the hosts were trying to end the game as quickly as possible. But the captain, Pat Cummins (32 not out), playing his first ODI since last year’s stunning World Cup final triumph, was again there at the end in a tight chase as Australia got home with 99 balls to spare. One of the best quicks of his generation, Cummins has quickly become a specialist run-chaser in the last 18 months after being involved in two close Test wins and three ODI victories.
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