Pakistan took an early 1-0 lead Three-match T20I series against Australia with a convincing 22-run win at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday. A collective batting effort followed by disciplined bowling saw Pakistan cross the finish line despite resistance from Australia’s lower order.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Pakistan posted a competitive 168 for 8, proving beyond the visitors’ reach on a surface that offered help to the spinners.
Saim Ayub and Salman Agha created the platform for Pakistan’s victory
Pakistan’s innings was closed with high level aggressive contributions. Saim Ayub continued his strong form with a deft 40 off 22 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes to put pressure on Australia during the power play. After the premature dismissal of Sahibzada Farhan, Ayub effectively teamed up with Captain Salman Agha. He struck 39 off 27 deliveries.
Former captain Babar Azam added stability in the middle innings with 20 off 24 balls, helping the Pakistanis maintain momentum as the wings dropped at regular intervals.
Australia pulled back through the middle, mainly thanks to leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who delivered an excellent spell of 24 for 4. His wickets of Ayub, Salman Agha, Babar Azam and Usman Khan halted Pakistan’s account briefly.
However, an unbeaten 15 from Mohammad Nawaz and some handy late runs saw Pakistan pass 165. The a total of 168 of the hosts 8 It looked defensible given the nature of the pitch and the strength of the bowling attack.
Australia lose early wickets in the chase
Chasing 169, Australia struggled to gain early momentum. Stand captain Travis Head showed brief intent with 13 off 23 balls, but his dismissal led to a steady decline in wickets. Opener Matthew Short got off cheaply while debutant Matthew Renshaw was run out after a promising start.
Middle-order batsmen Cameron Green and Josh Philippe tried to stabilize the innings, but the pace required continued to rise as Pakistan’s spinners tightened the screws.
Pakistan’s bowling was led by Abrar Ahmed who finished with excellent figures of 2 for 10 in four overs. His control and versatility proved a lot for Australia’s middle order, pulling off key knocks at crucial moments.
Ayub also made an impact with the ball, picking up two wickets in his 3 overs, while Shadab Khan and Nawaz provided vital support to keep Australia in check.
Australia found some hope through Xavier Bartlett, who played a spirited unbeaten knock of 34 off 25 balls, including three fours and two sixes. His late charge took Australia past 140, but the target proved too steep.
Australia eventually finished at 146 for 8, falling by 22 runs despite Bartlett’s resistance.
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