KEY POINTS
- Pakistan took a 2-0 series lead after defeating Australia by 90 runs in the second T20 match.
- Skipper Salman Ali Agha led the charge with a career-high 76 runs as Pakistan posted 198-5.
- Five different spinners shared all ten wickets to bundle out the Australian batters for just 108.
Pakistan clinical performance in Lahore has secured an unassailable lead in their three-match T20 series against Australia. The hosts achieved a massive 90-run victory on Saturday at the Gaddafi Stadium. This win marks Pakistan’s first T20 series triumph over the Australian side since 2018. It also provides a significant morale boost ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The match began with Pakistan electing to bat first on a favorable home track. Captain Salman Ali Agha delivered a standout performance by hitting 76 runs from only 40 deliveries. His aggressive knock included eight boundaries and four sixes, setting a high tempo for the innings. Usman Khan provided vital support with a brisk 53 to help set a record-breaking target.
Pakistan finished their 20 overs with a total of 198-5, their highest-ever score against Australia. The Australian bowling attack struggled to contain the steady flow of runs during the middle overs. Adam Zampa remained the most economical bowler for the visitors, but the total remained imposing. Australia faced a daunting chase of nearly ten runs per over from the start.
The second half of the match turned into a masterclass in spin bowling. Pakistan unleashed five different slow bowlers who completely dismantled the Australian batting order. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head fell early, leaving the middle order exposed to intense pressure. The Australian team struggled to adapt to the turning conditions as the ball aged.
Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan were the primary destroyers, each claiming three crucial wickets. Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, and Usman Tariq also contributed to the historic collapse. For the first time in T20I history, Pakistan’s spinners took all ten wickets in a single game. Australia was eventually bowled out for 108 in less than 16 overs.
Cameron Green offered the only real resistance for the visitors with a determined 35. However, his teammates failed to build the necessary partnerships to challenge the massive total. The heavy defeat serves as a tactical reality check for Australia before the world tournament. They must now find ways to counter elite spin on subcontinental pitches.
Pakistan will now look toward Sunday’s final match to complete a 3-0 series sweep. The team’s all-round discipline has impressed local fans and international critics alike. Salman Ali Agha’s leadership continues to draw praise as he integrates young talent into the squad. The series win confirms Pakistan’s status as a top contender for the global trophy.
