Pakistan cricket team ends Australia's 28-match winning streak in Melbourne

Pakistan emerged victorious, winning the first One Day International (ODI) against Australia by 45 runs.

In their first ODI of the three-match series, Pakistan's incredible performance ended Australia's 28-match winning streak at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Babar Azam's exceptional century and Haris Rauf's brilliant bowling performance were the key highlights of Pakistan's triumph.

Babar Azam, Pakistan's captain, led the batting front with a remarkable century, scoring 157 runs off 148 balls. His innings included 13 boundaries and four sixes, setting a solid foundation for Pakistan's total of 348 runs. Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Rizwan also contributed with notable scores of 67 and 59, respectively.

In response, Australia's chase faltered as Haris Rauf's impressive bowling restricted them to 303 runs. Rauf claimed three crucial wickets, including the prized scalp of Steve Smith, who made a valiant 80 runs. Other bowlers, including Mohammad Hasnain and Shaheen Afridi, also played key roles in Pakistan's victory. Despite David Warner's valiant effort of 104 runs, Australia fell short of the target, handing Pakistan a memorable victory.

This victory marks a significant achievement for Pakistan, as it halts Australia's remarkable winning streak in ODIs at the MCG. Pakistan will look to maintain their momentum in the remaining matches of the series, while Australia will aim to bounce back and reclaim their dominance.

The second ODI between Pakistan and Australia will be played on January 15, 2023, at the Sydney Cricket Ground.