Pakistan took an early 1-0 lead in Three-match T20 series against Australia With a confident 22-run win at the Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday. A collective batting effort followed by disciplined bowling ensured that Pakistan crossed the finish line, despite late resistance from Australia’s lower order.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Pakistan posted a competitive score of 168 for 8, which proved beyond the reach of the visitors on a surface that favored spinners.
Saim Ayub and Salman Aga set the stage for Pakistan’s victory
Pakistan’s innings was supported by aggressive contributions from the top order. Sam Ayub continued his strong form with a quickfire 40 off 22 balls with three fours and two sixes to put pressure on Australia during the powerplay. After the early dismissal of Sahibzada Farhan, Ayub partnered effectively with captain Salman Aga, who played a measured but impressive innings of 39 runs from 27 balls.
Former captain Babar Azam added stability in the middle overs by scoring 24 runs in 20 balls, which helped Pakistan maintain the momentum with wickets falling at regular intervals.
Australia made a comeback in the middle overs thanks to leg spinner Adam Zampa, who took 4 for 24. Their wickets of Ayub, Salman Agha, Babar Azam and Usman Khan kept Pakistan’s score in check for some time.
However, Mohammad Nawaz’s unbeaten 15 and easy late runs ensured Pakistan crossed the 165-mark. The total score of the host team is 168 runs for 8 wickets. Given the nature of the pitch and the strength of their bowling attack, a rescue seemed possible.
Australia lost early wickets while chasing the target
Chasing 169, Australia struggled to gain early momentum. Stand-in captain Travis Head showed brief intent by scoring 23 runs from 13 balls, but his dismissal led to a steady fall of wickets. Opener Matthew Short was out cheaply, while debutant Matthew Renshaw was run out after a good start.
Middle-order batsmen Cameron Green and Josh Philippe attempted to steady the innings, but the required rate continued to rise as Pakistan’s spinners tightened the noose.
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Pakistan’s bowling effort was led by Abrar Ahmed, who took 2 for 10 in four overs. His control and variety proved too much for Australia’s middle order, removing key batsmen at crucial moments.
Ayub also made an impact with the ball and took two wickets in his 3 overs, while Shadab Khan and Nawaz provided vital assistance in keeping Australia in check.
Australia got some hope from Xavier Bartlett, who played an unbeaten inning of 34 runs in 25 balls with the help of three fours and two sixes. Their final attack took Australia past 140, but the target proved too difficult.
Australia eventually finished 146 for 8, 22 runs short despite resistance from Bartlett.
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