Saim Ayub’s stellar all-round show powered Pakistan to a 22-run triumph over Australia in the T20 series opener at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. This emphatic win gives Pakistan the upper hand at 1-0, with Ayub’s contributions earning him top honors.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Pakistan suffered an immediate jolt with Sahibzada Farhan out for nought. Captain Salman Agha anchored with 39 off 27 balls (five fours), while Ayub blazed 40 from 22 (three fours, two sixes) in a pivotal 74-run stand.
The middle order chipped away: Babar Azam 24 and Fakhar Zaman’s partnership of 37, plus Usman Khan’s 18, lifted the total to 168 for 8. Australia’s attack was led by Zampa’s 4-24, with two wickets each from Bartlett and Beardman.
In pursuit, Australia started shakily—Short 5, Head 23 (two fours, two sixes off 13). At 28-2, Green-Renshaw’s 40-run grit offered respite, but collapses followed. Bartlett (34*) and Zampa (5) fought valiantly, yet 146 for 8 was the final tally.
Pakistan’s bowlers executed perfectly: Ayub 2-21, Abrar Ahmed 2, Shadab Khan 1, Mohammad Nawaz 1. Ayub’s dual prowess signals his arrival as a T20 force, positioning Pakistan strongly for the series decider.