KEY POINTS
- Adam Zampa’s four-wicket haul restricted Pakistan to 168/8 after a strong opening stand.
- Pakistan’s innings lost momentum with 34/4 in the final five overs after a fast start.
LAHORE: Pakistan posted a modest total of 168 after choosing to bat first in the opening T20I against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
Explosive start, middle-order stumble
Openers Saim Ayub and skipper Salman Agha provided a blazing start after an early setback. Ayub smashed 40 off just 22 balls, while Agha scored a brisk 39 from 27 deliveries, propelling Pakistan to 74 for 2 in the 8th over. Babar Azam contributed a steady 24, but the middle order couldn’t maintain the explosive tempo.
A cluster of wickets in the final five overs, where Pakistan scored only 34 runs for the loss of four wickets, curtailed a potentially larger total. Mohammad Nawaz remained not out on 14, providing a late push.
Zampa weaves spin web, Pacers strike late
Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa was the chief destroyer for the visitors, delivering a masterful spell of 4 for 24 in his four overs. He accounted for key batters Saim Ayub, Salman Agha, Babar Azam (lbw), and Usman Khan to cripple Pakistan’s batting backbone.
Pacers Xavier Bartlett (2 for 26) and Mahli Beardman (2 for 32) provided crucial strikes at the start and death, respectively, ensuring Pakistan didn’t run away with the game.
Target set, Australia’s chase ahead
Pakistan’s final score of 168/8 presents a competitive but chaseable target on the batting-friendly Lahore pitch. The Australian reply, led by a mix of experienced and new faces, will be the focal point of the second innings under lights.
The series marks Australia’s first tour of Pakistan in several years, drawing a packed crowd at the historic Gaddafi Stadium for this day-night encounter.
