Pakistan's much-anticipated clash with Australia in the first ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Monday was marred by a critical setback as pace bowler Naseem Shah suffered a recurrence of injury. In his return to international cricket after a brief hiatus, Naseem's game saw both flashes of brilliance and unfortunate misfortune, dealing a significant blow to Pakistan’s hopes for the series and putting their bowling attack on shaky ground as they prepare for an intense season.


COMMERCIAL BREAK
SCROLL TO CONTINUE READING

Also Read: Virat Kohli Sets New Milestone, Becomes First Indian Cricketer To Cross 20 Crore Mark With Record-Breaking RCB Deal For IPL


A Struggling Start Turned Resilient Fightback


After electing to bat first, Pakistan found themselves in a precarious position as their top order faltered under Australia’s relentless bowling attack. At one stage, Pakistan was reduced to a troubling 148-7, with the threat of being bowled out for less than 200 looming large. Enter Naseem Shah, who showcased his resilience by stepping up in an unexpected role. Batting at number nine, he produced a swift, impactful 40 off just 39 balls, smashing four sixes and a boundary. His aggressive approach allowed Pakistan to break through the 200-run barrier, ultimately finishing with a total of 214.


This late-order batting cameo by Naseem was unexpected but vital. Known more for his express pace than his batting prowess, his contribution injected some much-needed energy into Pakistan’s innings. Given his previous ODI record of just 31 runs from 14 matches, Naseem’s innings was nothing short of extraordinary, emphasizing his determination to make an impact for his team in any capacity.


Naseem’s Painful Return to Bowling


Unfortunately, the momentum Naseem brought with the bat couldn’t fully carry over to his bowling. Returning to the crease, he struggled with his line and rhythm, conceding 14 runs in his opening over. The rust from his time away from the game was evident, yet he quickly regrouped, taking the wicket of Australia’s promising young talent, Jake Fraser-McGurk, in his second over.


However, Naseem’s comeback story took a grim turn in the latter stages of the Australian innings. With the game balanced and Pakistan fighting to stay in contention, Naseem pulled up in pain midway through his spell. Attempting his second over after a brief recovery, he was visibly struggling with his left calf. The sight of Naseem wincing in pain as he hobbled off the field was a devastating blow for Pakistan, who rely on his pace to spearhead their bowling attack.


Mohammad Hasnain was forced to finish the over, but the damage was done. Australia capitalized on the disruption, cruising to victory in the 34th over with Naseem’s absence leaving a noticeable gap in Pakistan’s defense.


Pakistan's Waning Hopes and Future Concerns


The loss to Australia and Naseem's injury casts a shadow over Pakistan’s immediate future. The young pacer’s recovery will be essential as Pakistan heads into a packed international schedule. Following the ongoing ODI series against Australia, Pakistan is set to play a three-match T20I series that wraps up on November 18, followed by an ODI and T20I series against Zimbabwe. The team will then embark on a multi-format tour to South Africa, where Naseem’s fitness could make or break their chances.


Naseem’s injury history has been a source of concern, particularly as he recently took a break from the Test squad following Pakistan's initial Test loss to England. His absence had allowed Pakistan to reshuffle their lineup, resting key players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, which led to a 2-1 comeback victory in the Test series. However, his latest setback raises questions about Pakistan’s depth in the pace department, especially with Shaheen and Haris Rauf carrying heavy workloads.


Shaheen and Rauf Step Up, But Is It Enough?


Despite Naseem’s untimely exit, Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf offered moments of hope for Pakistan. Shaheen dismissed Josh Inglis, who had led Australia’s steady chase, just one run short of his half-century. Rauf’s two wickets in consecutive balls briefly brought Pakistan back into contention, but the combined efforts of Pakistan’s bowlers could not hold off Australia in the end.


With the first ODI now in the books, Pakistan's team management faces critical decisions. They must assess whether Naseem’s injury requires an extended rest or if he can recover in time for the T20I series. Given Pakistan’s challenging calendar, they may need to consider rotation policies to preserve their pace attack's longevity.