BRISBANE: Australia claimed a 29-run victory in the rain-shortened first T20I against Pakistan at The Gabba on Thursday, thanks to an exceptional bowling performance.
Set a challenging target of 94 runs in 7 overs, Pakistan struggled to keep up, finishing at 64/9.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles
The visitors started decently, scoring 12 runs for the loss of one wicket in the first over. However, things quickly went downhill as they faced a dramatic middle-order collapse.
Key players Babar Azam (3) and captain Mohammad Rizwan (0) fell early, leaving Pakistan at 20/5 after three overs.
Australian pacer Xavier Bartlett struck early, dismissing Salman Ali Agha (4) and ending with impressive figures of 3/13 in his two overs.
Despite Pakistan’s struggles, Abbas Afridi offered some resistance with an unbeaten 20-run cameo, but it wasn’t enough to save his team from defeat.
Australia’s Bowling Domination
Nathan Ellis led Australia’s bowling attack with figures of 3/9 in two overs, while Adam Zampa added two wickets to pile more pressure on Pakistan.
Maxwell’s Batting Blitz
Earlier, Glenn Maxwell powered Australia to 93/5 with a quick-fire innings after Pakistan’s captain Rizwan won the toss and chose to bowl.
The second match of the series will be crucial for Pakistan as they look to bounce back.
