Saim Ayub’s all-round brilliance powers Pakistan to victory over Australia in T20I series opener

Pakistan took an early 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Australia with a confident 22-run victory at the Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday. A collective batting effort followed by disciplined bowling ensured Pakistan crossed the finish line, despite a late resistance from Australia’s lower order.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Pakistan posted a competitive 168 for 8, a total that proved just out of reach for the visitors on a surface offering assistance to spinners.

Saim Ayub and Salman Agha set the platform for Pakistan’s win

Pakistan’s innings was anchored by aggressive contributions from the top order. Saim Ayub continued his strong form with a brisk 40 off 22 balls, striking three fours and two sixes to put pressure on Australia during the powerplay. After the early dismissal of Sahibzada Farhan, Ayub combined effectively with captain Salman Agha, who played a measured yet impactful knock of 39 from 27 deliveries.

Former captain Babar Azam added stability in the middle overs with 24 off 20 balls, helping Pakistan maintain momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Australia clawed back through the middle overs thanks largely to leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who delivered a superb spell of 4 for 24. His wickets of Ayub, Salman Agha, Babar Azam and Usman Khan briefly stalled Pakistan’s scoring.

However, a composed unbeaten 15 from Mohammad Nawaz and handy late runs ensured Pakistan crossed the 165 mark. The hosts’ total of 168 for 8 looked defendable given the nature of the pitch and the strength of their bowling attack.

Australia lose early wickets in the chase

Chasing 169, Australia struggled to gain early momentum. Stand-in captain Travis Head showed brief intent with 23 off 13 balls, but his dismissal triggered a steady fall of wickets. Opener Matthew Short departed cheaply, while debutant Matthew Renshaw was run out after a promising start.

Middle-order batters Cameron Green and Josh Philippe attempted to steady the innings, but the required rate kept climbing as Pakistan’s spinners tightened the screws.

Also READ: Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 spot at risk? Iceland Cricket’s funny idea explodes online

Pakistan’s bowling effort was led by Abrar Ahmed, who finished with outstanding figures of 2 for 10 in four overs. His control and variation proved too much for Australia’s middle order, removing key batters at crucial moments.

Ayub also made an impact with the ball, picking up two wickets in his 3 overs, while Shadab Khan and Nawaz provided vital support to keep Australia in check.

Australia found some hope through Xavier Bartlett, who played a spirited unbeaten knock of 34 off 25 balls, including three fours and two sixes. His late assault lifted Australia past 140, but the target proved too steep.

Australia eventually finished on 146 for 8, falling 22 runs short despite Bartlett’s resistance.

Also READ: Here’s why the Pakistan vs Australia T20I series is not being broadcast in India