PAK vs AUS, 1st ODI Live: Abrar Ahmed strikes early to remove Alex Carey

Australia begin their latest ODI campaign carrying confidence from their last 50-over assignment, where they defeated India 2-1 at home. Although several months have passed since that series, the visitors will be eager to maintain their strong record in the format.

Josh Inglis and his team face a challenging task against Pakistan in Rawalpindi, where conditions are expected to favour bowlers early on. With experienced names such as Alex Carey, Cameron Green and Marnus Labuschagne in the lineup, Australia will look to make a winning start and gain valuable momentum for future ODI competitions.

The ODI series against Australia offers Pakistan a chance to reset after suffering a 2-1 series defeat against Bangladesh. While the tour provided valuable game time, Pakistan will be determined to deliver stronger performances in front of their home supporters.

Led by Shaheen Afridi, the hosts have assembled a squad featuring experienced names such as Babar Azam, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf. A positive result against Australia would not only boost confidence but also help Pakistan begin their long-term preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup on a stronger footing.

Australia have handed a debut cap to promising batter Oliver Peake in the first ODI against Pakistan. Captain Josh Inglis revealed the news at the toss and praised the youngster's maturity and temperament. Peake has impressed early in his career and now gets an opportunity on the international stage.

Australia have not played an ODI since defeating India 2-1 last year and will be hoping fresh faces can strengthen their squad moving forward. The series against Pakistan provides an ideal platform for emerging players to gain valuable experience ahead of the next ODI World Cup cycle.

Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi had little hesitation in opting to bowl after winning the toss in Rawalpindi. The left-arm quick felt the surface looked slower than expected and believed the conditions could favour his bowling attack early in the match.

Pakistan enter the series looking to recover from a recent 2-1 ODI defeat against Bangladesh and will be hoping to gain early control against a strong Australian side. Shaheen emphasised the importance of building momentum and maintaining consistency as Pakistan begin another crucial phase of their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Pakistan stepped onto the field in Rawalpindi on Saturday for their 1,000th ODI, marking a major milestone in the country's cricket history. Captain Shaheen Afridi described the occasion as a special moment for the entire team after winning the toss against Australia in the first ODI of the three-match series.

Pakistan chose to bowl first on what Shaheen believed was a slow and low surface. The landmark match also serves as an important step in preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup. With a home crowd behind them, Pakistan will be eager to make the historic occasion even more memorable with a victory.