Pakistan Set 168-Run Target Against Australia in 1st T20I

LAHORE – In a high-stakes series opener at the Gaddafi Stadium, Australia’s premier leg-spinner Adam Zampa dismantled the Pakistani middle order to restrict the hosts to a modest 168/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite blazing batting from Saim Ayub and skipper Salman Agha, the "Men in Green" struggled to maintain momentum against a disciplined Australian bowling attack.

Explosive Start and Mid-Innings Collapse

The match began with high drama as Xavier Bartlett dismissed Sahibzada Farhan for a golden duck on the very first delivery of the game. However, Saim Ayub (40 off 22) and captain Salman Agha (39 off 27) quickly turned the tide, counter-attacking with a flurry of boundaries. The duo propelled Pakistan to a healthy 56/1 at the end of the Powerplay, looking set for a total well beyond 180.

The momentum shifted drastically when Adam Zampa was introduced. Zampa first removed the dangerous Ayub and then accounted for Salman Agha just as the partnership was becoming threatening. Babar Azam, returning to the T20I side, showed glimpses of class with a 24-run knock but fell LBW to Zampa following a successful Australian review.

Australia’s bowling performance was headlined by Zampa’s clinical figures of 4/24. He was ably supported by Xavier Bartlett (2/26) and Mahli Beardman (2/33).

Pakistan's lower order, including Mohammad Nawaz (15*) and Salman Mirza (4*), added some late runs. Still, the loss of Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi in quick succession during the 20th over left the hosts defending a total of 168 in 1st T20I.