Gaddafi Stadium witnessed Pakistan’s dominance as they outclassed Australia by 22 runs in the opening T20I, thanks to Saim Ayub’s explosive all-round display. The victory hands Pakistan a vital 1-0 lead, with Ayub rightfully bagging the Player of the Match accolade.
Toss victors Pakistan opened aggressively but lost Farhan for zero. Salman Agha (39 from 27, five boundaries) and Saim Ayub (40 off 22, two sixes, three fours) responded with a 74-run recovery. Babar Azam (24) partnered Fakhar Zaman for 37 runs, and Usman Khan’s 18 helped post 168 for 8.
Adam Zampa spearheaded Australia’s reply with 4 for 24, while Bartlett and Beardman took two wickets each, keeping the chase in sight. However, Australia lost Short (5) and Head (23 off 13) quickly, slipping to 28 for 2.
Cameron Green and Matt Renshaw added 40, but the innings unraveled post-partnership. Despite Xavier Bartlett’s fighting 34 not out alongside Zampa’s 5, Australia managed only 146 for 8. Pakistan’s bowlers shone: Ayub and Abrar Ahmed (2 each), plus Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz (1 apiece).
Ayub’s seamless transition from batting fireworks to bowling control underscored Pakistan’s strategy. As the series unfolds, Australia’s bowlers must regroup, but Pakistan’s momentum is unmistakable.