Dominant Batting Display Gives Pakistan Upper Hand
Pakistan produced a commanding performance to defeat Australia in the second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The home side registered a massive 90-run victory to seal the three-match series. This win marked Pakistan’s first T20I series triumph over Australia in seven years. The result also handed Pakistan an unassailable 2-0 lead, with the final match scheduled at the same venue.
After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha opted to bat first. His decision proved to be a turning point in the match. Pakistan posted a strong total of 198 for 5 in their 20 overs. The pitch offered good bounce and value for shots. Pakistani batters capitalized on the conditions with positive intent.
Pakistan’s innings did not begin smoothly. Opener Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed early for five runs. The score was 17 for 1 in the second over. Australia sensed an opportunity to apply pressure. However, Salman Ali Agha and Saim Ayub quickly changed the momentum.
Saim Ayub played an explosive cameo. He scored 23 runs from just 11 deliveries. His innings included four boundaries and aggressive stroke play. He was dismissed near the end of the powerplay. Shortly after, Babar Azam was trapped lbw for only two runs. Pakistan slipped to 76 for 3, raising hopes for Australia.
Agha and Usman Power Pakistan to 198
Captain Salman Ali Agha led from the front with a superb batting display. He built a crucial partnership with Shadab Khan to stabilize the innings. Agha played with confidence and authority. He reached his half-century in just 25 balls. It was his sixth fifty in T20I cricket.
Agha remained Pakistan’s top-scorer with 76 off 40 balls. His innings featured eight fours and four sixes. Sean Abbott eventually broke the partnership by dismissing the skipper. Despite his dismissal, Pakistan maintained strong momentum.
Wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan ensured a powerful finish. He scored a fluent 52 off 35 deliveries. His innings included four boundaries and two sixes. Usman shared a vital 63-run stand with Shadab Khan for the fifth wicket. Shadab contributed 28 runs from 20 balls. Mohammad Nawaz added quick runs at the death. Australia’s bowlers struggled to contain Pakistan in the final overs.
Pakistan Bowlers Crush Australia’s Chase
Australia faced a daunting chase of 199 runs. Their batting lineup failed to handle Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. The visitors were bowled out for 108 in just 15.4 overs. The required run rate proved too steep from the start.
All-rounder Cameron Green was Australia’s top scorer. He made 35 runs off 20 balls. Matthew Short added 27, while captain Mitchell Marsh scored 18. Xavier Bartlett also reached double figures with 10 runs. No other batter could offer resistance.
Pakistan’s spinners dominated the contest. Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan claimed three wickets each. Usman Tariq picked up two wickets. Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with one wicket apiece. Australia’s innings collapsed under constant pressure.
Pakistan’s comprehensive victory highlighted their growing depth in T20 cricket. The series win also boosted confidence ahead of the final match. Fans at Gaddafi Stadium celebrated a memorable night of cricket.
