Pakistan defeated Australia by 22 runs in a thrilling first T20 international of the three-match series, giving the home side an early 1–0 lead. The match took place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, where Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and opted to bat first, setting the stage for a competitive contest.
Pakistan posted a total of 168 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The innings did not start smoothly, as Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed for a duck on the very first ball. However, Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha stabilized the innings with composed and effective stroke play. Ayub top-scored with 40 runs before being dismissed when Pakistan had reached 74, while Salman Ali Agha contributed 39 runs. Babar Azam added 24, Usman Khan 18, Fakhar Zaman 10, and Mohammad Nawaz remained unbeaten on 15. Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan had less impact with the bat, Afridi falling for a duck and Khan managing just one run.
Australia’s bowling attack was led by Adam Zampa, who took four wickets for 24 runs, while Bartlett and Beardman picked up two wickets each. Despite the early setbacks, Pakistan managed to post a competitive total that put pressure on the visitors.
Chasing 169 for victory, Australia struggled to maintain momentum and eventually finished on 146 for eight in their 20 overs. Cameron Green led the Australian batting with 36 runs, while Bartlett supported with 34 runs. Pakistan’s bowlers performed effectively, with Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed taking two wickets each, and Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz contributing one wicket apiece.
With this win, Pakistan now leads the three-match T20 series 1–0, setting up an exciting contest for the remaining two matches. The victory showcased Pakistan’s balanced performance in both batting and bowling, and the team will look to build on this momentum to secure the series.
