LAHORE (MNN); An outstanding all-round performance by Saim Ayub guided Pakistan to a 22-run victory over Australia in the first Twenty20 International at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday, marking Pakistan’s first T20I win against Australia in more than seven years.
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and posted 168 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Despite an early setback with Sahibzada Farhan dismissed for a duck in the opening over, Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha steadied the innings with a solid 74-run partnership.
Saim played an aggressive knock of 40 runs, setting the tempo for the innings, while Salman provided stability at the other end. Babar Azam, returning to Pakistan’s T20 side following a difficult Big Bash League season, managed 24 runs before being dismissed by spinner Adam Zampa.
Australia’s bowling attack was led by Adam Zampa, who claimed four key wickets, including those of Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha. Xavier Bartlett and Mahli Beardman also chipped in with two wickets each to restrict Pakistan from accelerating in the later stages.
Defending the target, Pakistan’s decision to field four spinners proved decisive as they dismantled Australia’s batting lineup. Saim Ayub struck early by dismissing Travis Head, who had scored 23 runs with two sixes and two fours, and removed Matthew Short in his opening over.
Abrar Ahmed supported the spin attack with two wickets, while Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan also picked up crucial breakthroughs. Australia’s Cameron Green and Xavier Bartlett fought back with scores of 36 and 34 respectively, but two run-outs further dented the visitors’ chase.
Australia were eventually restricted to 146 runs for eight wickets in 20 overs.
Speaking after the match, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha termed it a “great game”, saying the pitch became challenging after the first ten overs as the ball stopped coming onto the bat. He praised his team’s bowling performance, calling it outstanding under the conditions.
Australian captain Travis Head said his side was focused on adapting to conditions, describing the series as valuable preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The three-match T20I series is being played at Gaddafi Stadium, with the remaining matches scheduled for January 31 and February 1.
