Pakistan on Thursday started the T20I series against Australia in Lahore with a 22-run victory at Gaddafi Stadium.

 

It was Pakistan’s first T20I win over Australia in seven years, with the last victory coming in 2018 when they won by 33 runs in Dubai.

 

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha chose to bat first. 

 

The decision looked risky early on as Sahibzada Farhan fell for a duck on the very first ball of the match. Pakistan then steadied the innings through a responsible partnership between Saim Ayub and Salman.

 

Saim scored 40 runs while the skipper hit 39 runs off 27 balls. Babar Azam chipped in with 24. 

 

Fakhar Zaman scored 10, Usman Khan made 18, Shadab Khan managed one and Shaheen Afridi was dismissed for a duck. Mohammad Nawaz remained not out on 15 as Pakistan finished for 168 for the loss of eight wickets in 20 overs.

 

For Australia, Adam Zampa led the bowling attack with four wickets for 24 runs. Xavier Bartlett and Behrendorff picked up two wickets each.

 

Chasing 169, Australia were off to strong start but Pakistan struck early. Saim Ayub claimed the wickets of Matt Short and Travis Head, leaving Australia 28-2.

 

Cameron Green fought hard and top-scored for Australia with 36 runs. Xavier Bartlett impressed with the bat as well, scoring 34, while Matt Renshaw made 15 and Josh Philippe added 12. 

 

Despite these efforts, Australia could only reach 146 for eight in their 20 overs.

 

Pakistan’s bowlers kept tight control throughout the innings. Abrar Ahmed delivered a standout performance, conceding just 10 runs in his four overs and taking two wickets. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz picked up one wicket each.

 

The second T20I of the series will take place at the same venue on Saturday.