Pat Cummins Returns as Australia Announce Playing XI for First ODI Against Pakistan

Prepend to the Content

Read Original Content: Pat Cummins Returns as Australia Announce Playing XI for First ODI Against Pakistan

Australia’s ODI team is set to face Pakistan in the first match of a three-game series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Monday, November 4. Leading the squad will be Pat Cummins, marking his return to ODI cricket after almost a year away. This series opener is a crucial match for both teams as they gear up for an exciting face-off.

Cummins last played in the 50-over format during Australia’s triumphant World Cup final victory over India in Ahmedabad on November 19, 2023. Since then, he had taken a break from the shorter format, missing the September tour of England to focus on his fitness for the home Test series against India. His presence adds a strong boost to the Australian bowling lineup, as he steps back into leadership for this ODI series.

Opening the innings, Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short will be tasked with giving Australia a solid start. Josh Inglis will take on wicketkeeping duties, adding stability to the middle order. Another key inclusion is Sean Abbott, who replaces Josh Hazlewood.

Hazlewood has opted to play domestic Shield cricket as preparation for the upcoming Tests against India, leaving Abbott to bring his experience and pace to Australia’s attack.

The confirmed lineup for Australia’s first ODI against Pakistan includes a balanced mix of power hitters and bowlers. With seasoned players like Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne providing depth, all-rounder Glenn Maxwell adds versatility to the middle order. The spin department will be led by Adam Zampa, while Mitchell Starc rounds out the pace attack alongside Abbott and Cummins.

Here’s the Australia playing XI for the first ODI:

• Openers: Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk
• Middle Order: Steve Smith, Josh Inglis (wk), Marnus Labuschagne
• All-Rounders: Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell
• Bowlers: Adam Zampa, Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc

Read Original Content: Pat Cummins Returns as Australia Announce Playing XI for First ODI Against Pakistan

ProBatsman