Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2024: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne pitch history and ODI records
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is about to host a high-stakes One Day International after nine months. Yes, the World Cup champions will be in action as they take on Pakistan in the first ODI on Monday, November 4.
While both teams will field strong playing XIs, this series will mark the commencement of Mohammad Rizwan's captaincy tenure. Babar Azam stepped down from the role last month. Talking about Babar, he would also love to stake his claim after getting dropped from the Test series against England. Regardless, he would love to bat on a surface like the one in MCG, which assists batters.
On that note, here are some important numbers you need to know from previous ODIs played in Melbourne.
Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG ODI stats and records
Stadium Name: Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG
City: Melbourne
ODI Matches Played: 151
Matches Won by Teams Batting First: 73
Matches Won by Teams Batting Second: 74
Matches Tied: 1
Highest Individual Score: 180 - Jason Roy (ENG) vs Australia, 2018
Best Bowling Figures: 6/42 - Ajit Agarkar and Yuzvendra Chahal
Highest Team Score: 355/5 by Australia vs England in 2022
Lowest Team Score: 94/10 (ENG) vs Australia, 1979
Highest Successful Run Chase: 308/5 by England vs Australia, 2018
Average Run Rate: 4.45
Average first-innings score: 220
Average second-innings: 194
Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Pitch Report
A great cricket pitch awaits the first ODI between Australia and Pakistan. With the new ball, the pacers are likely to generate enough pace and seam movement. While the pitch won't exactly be a haven for spinners, the long boundaries can bring them in the game. Moreover, once settled, a batter can really score a bulk of runs at the venue. The forecast says it will be a cool and dry day in Melbourne.
Melbourne Cricket Ground, MCG last ODI
The last time the MCG hosted an ODI was back in February this year when Australia welcomed the West Indies with a comfortable win.
After opting to bowl first, Australia reduced the Men in Maroon to 59/4 before Keacy Carty played a sublime knock to single-handedly take his side to 231/10. Debutant Xavier Bartlett was at his best, getting a four-wicket haul while leaking just 17 runs in his nine-over spell.
Despite losing Travis Head early, Australia chased down the target with ease. Josh Inglis (65) scored a fifty alongside Cameron Green (77*) and Steve Smith (79*).