In a commanding display of all-round cricket, Pakistan secured a decisive 22-run victory against a depleted Australian side in the opening Twenty20 international at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday. The match was defined by the exceptional performance of Saim Ayub, whose contributions with both bat and ball proved instrumental in the home team’s success.
After winning the toss and electing bat first, Pakistan faced early pressure when opener Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed for a golden duck. However, Ayub (40) combined with captain Salman Agha (39) to stabilize the innings through a crucial 74-run partnership that established the foundation for a competitive total. The middle order faced significant challenges from Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who delivered an impressive bowling spell claiming 4-24, including the wickets of both set batsmen and the dangerous Babar Azam (24). Despite Zampa’s efforts, Pakistan managed to post 168-8 from their allotted overs.
When Australia began their chase, Ayub immediately made his presence felt with the ball. The off-spinner removed opener Matthew Short in his first over before delivering the crucial blow of dismissing stand-in captain Travis Head (23) in his second over. Australia’s innings never gained momentum as they suffered multiple setbacks, including the run-outs of Matt Renshaw and Mitchell Owen. Mohammad Nawaz effectively sealed the match by ending Cameron Green’s promising knock of 36 in the 13th over. Although number 10 batter Xavier Bartlett provided late entertainment with an unbeaten 34 from 25 deliveries, Australia could only manage 146-8 in reply.
The victory holds particular significance as both teams use this three-match series as preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Australia fielded a second-string squad led by makeshift captain Head, with regular skipper Mitchell Marsh arriving late after completing Big Bash League commitments. The team included three debutants, reflecting their experimental approach to the series. The remaining matches will be played at the same venue on Saturday and Sunday, offering both sides further opportunities to refine their strategies before the global tournament.