Pakistan vs Australia 1st T20I: Pakistan delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat Australia by 22 runs in the first T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
In front of a packed Lahore crowd, Pakistan outplayed Australia in every department. Saim Ayub starred with both bat and ball and was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Match Highlights
- Match: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st T20I
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Result: Pakistan won by 22 runs
- Series Status: Pakistan lead 1-0
- Player of the Match: Saim Ayub
Pakistan Innings: Saim Ayub Leads the Charge
After opting to bat first, Pakistan lost a few early wickets but recovered well thanks to Saim Ayub’s composed 41 off 30 balls. Babar Azam and Salman Agha added stability in the middle overs, while quick runs at the end helped Pakistan post a competitive 168/8 in 20 overs.
Australia’s Adam Zampa was the standout bowler with an impressive four-wicket haul, preventing Pakistan from crossing the 170 mark.
Top Scorers for Pakistan:
- Saim Ayub – 41 (30)
- Babar Azam – 29 (22)
- Sahibzada Farhan – 21 (18)
Australia’s Chase: Spin and Pressure Turn the Game
Australia began the chase positively but lost momentum during the middle overs. Two crucial runouts, including Matt Renshaw and Mitchell Owen, shifted the match firmly in Pakistan’s favor.
Abrar Ahmed’s tight spell and Saim Ayub’s off-spin applied pressure, leading to regular wickets. Despite Cameron Green’s 38, Australia were restricted to 146/8, falling short by 22 runs.
Top Scorers for Australia:
- Cameron Green – 38 (32)
- Travis Head – 25 (17)
Pakistan Bowling: Spin Does the Damage
Pakistan’s spin attack proved decisive. Abrar Ahmed (2/26) controlled the middle overs brilliantly, while Saim Ayub (2/18) chipped in with key wickets. Support from Mohammad Nawaz and sharp fielding ensured Australia never regained control.
Australia Miss Key Players
Australia were without several senior players, including Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, and Nathan Ellis. The lack of experience, especially against spin, was evident in the middle order.
What This Win Means for Pakistan
The victory gives Pakistan an early edge in the series and boosts confidence ahead of major international tournaments. Performances from young players underline Pakistan’s growing squad depth.
Also read: WPL First Century Player Name: Nat Sciver-Brunt Creates History With First-Ever WPL Century
What’s Next?
The second T20I will be played on Saturday. Australia will look to bounce back, while Pakistan will aim to secure the series with another strong performance.
