Ian Healy, a former Australian wicketkeeper, criticized Australia’s lackluster batting display in their first One-Day International match against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Even after defeating Pakistan by two wickets and chasing down their low goal of 204, Healy was frustrated with Australia’s strategy, referring to it as “schoolyard cricket.”
Healy said on SENQ, “We have a lot to learn,” emphasizing that Australia’s time to prepare for the Champions Trophy is running short. There aren’t many chances left before a final team is chosen because we’re preparing for the Champions Trophy. They’re treating it like a schoolyard, even though we should be playing these activities appropriately.”
Despite reaching the goal in just 33.3 overs, Australia’s lack of discipline left Healy disappointed. Healy remarked, “The disregard for conditions was unacceptable,” alluding to the erratic surface, which bowlers like Mitch Starc pointed out had irregular bounce and was two-paced. “So, what should we do? We attempt to slug the bowlers from Pakistan everywhere. The bowlers’ advice didn’t teach the batsmen anything, and they showed insufficient respect for the opponent.
As Australia failed, Healy also highlighted how Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Haris Rauf, gathered momentum, highlighting his displeasure with what he saw as “the Australian boys’ egos.” According to Healy, they were unable to “set aside [their egos] for even half an hour.”
With a composed 32 off 31 balls, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins steadied the chase and came out on top. Cummins added to his record of clutch performances by managing the last stages with his signature poise after coming to the crease at 155 for 7. He scored the winning runs in the 34th over to lead Australia to triumph alongside tailender Mitchell Starc.
Cummins also showed off his all-around ability by taking two wickets with the ball. After eliminating Pakistan’s openers and finishing with figures of 3-42, Starc set the tone in the first innings and was named Player of the Match.
Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique fell cheaply to Starc, and Pakistan struggled early in their innings. Babar Azam, who returned after missing important Test matches, contributed 37 runs before being bowled by Adam Zampa due to a misplaced shot, while captain Mohammad Rizwan led the scoring with 44. Pakistan surpassed 200 thanks to late contributions from Shaheen Afridi (24), and Naseem Shah (40).
But Australia’s pursuit faltered. Josh Inglis (49) and Steve Smith (44) provided steadiness when openers Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk failed to capitalize. However, Rauf of Pakistan caused a collapse by dismissing Glenn Maxwell and Marnus Labuschagne in consecutive deliveries. Australia was on the verge of collapse, so Cummins seized over and led them home.
Although the win gave the team a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Healy’s remarks highlight the need for development. Healy said, “Inglis and Smith showed restraint, and then Pat Cummins had to as well,” emphasizing that the squad needs to show greater focus and respect in the next games.
The series will end with three Twenty20 matches after the second ODI in Adelaide on Friday and the final ODI in Perth on Sunday.
