Lahore witnesses a green spectacle as Pakistan defeat Australia by 22 runs after 7 years in opening T20, securing early 1-0 advantage in three-match series
Srinagar , Jan 29,2026 (JKNN ) The Gaddafi Stadium lit up in shades of green on Thursday night as Pakistan produced a spirited all-round performance to defeat Australia by 22 runs in the opening T20I, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Agha opted to bat first, a decision that saw his side post a competitive 168/8 in 20 overs. The innings was held together despite a fiery spell from Australia’s Adam Zampa, who claimed four wickets and kept Pakistan from crossing the 180-run mark. Still, crucial contributions from the top and middle order ensured Pakistan had a defendable total on a lively Lahore pitch.
In reply, Australia struggled to gain momentum against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub starred with the ball, picking up two wickets each, while the rest of the bowling unit maintained tight lines to restrict Australia to 146/8 in their 20 overs.
The Australian batting lineup, led by Travis Head, never truly settled as regular breakthroughs kept the visitors on the back foot. Despite a few flashes of resistance, Pakistan’s bowlers ensured the target remained out of reach.
The match also marked a quick turnaround for Australian captain Mitchell Marsh, who was among eight players featuring in the Big Bash League final in Perth on Sunday night before flying out for the series opener. The rest of the Australian squad had been training in Dubai ahead of the tour.
With the T20 World Cup approaching, Australia are looking to regain their dominance in the shortest format after winning the 2021 edition but falling short in 2022 and 2024. However, Pakistan’s emphatic start in Lahore signals a tough road ahead for the visitors.
Australia Playing XI:
Travis Head (c), Matthew Short, Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (wk), Jack Edwards, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Mahli Beardman
Pakistan Playing XI:
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha (c), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
The second T20I promises another high-voltage clash as Pakistan look to seal the series, while Australia aim to strike back and level the contest.
(JKNEWS NATION)
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