Pakistan began their three-match T20I series against Australia with a 22-run victory at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on January 29, 2026. The win was largely influenced by the all-round performance of opener Saim Ayub, who contributed significantly with both bat and ball.
Saim Ayub’s Impactful Performance
Ayub scored a quick 40 runs off 22 balls, including three fours and two sixes, helping Pakistan post a total of 168 for 8 in their 20 overs. He also took two key wickets during Australia’s innings, breaking early partnerships and applying pressure on the visitors.
Pakistan’s Batting Effort
- Pakistan lost opener Sahibzada Farhan for a diamond duck early on.
- Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha steadied the innings with a 74-run partnership for the second wicket.
- Agha contributed 39 runs off 27 balls, including four sixes.
- Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman added 37 runs for the fourth wicket before Zampa dismissed Babar.
- Mohammad Nawaz finished unbeaten with 15 runs, supporting the tail-end batting.
Australia’s Batting Struggles
Chasing 169, Australia started positively with an opening stand of 21 runs in 10 balls. However, Ayub’s wickets of Matthew Short and Travis Head triggered a collapse.
- Cameron Green top-scored with 36 runs off 31 balls.
- Matt Renshaw added 15 runs before being run out, ending a 40-run partnership with Green.
- Australia lost wickets rapidly, falling to 112 for 8 in 15.4 overs.
- No. 10 Xavier Bartlett played a quick 34 not out but could not prevent defeat.
Bowling Highlights
- Adam Zampa led Australia’s bowling with figures of 4 wickets for 24 runs in 4 overs.
- For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub took two wickets each.
- Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz contributed one wicket apiece.
Summary
Despite a modest total, Pakistan’s balanced team effort and key contributions from Saim Ayub secured a strong start to the series. Australia’s batting lineup struggled to maintain momentum under pressure from Pakistan’s bowlers, resulting in a 22-run loss in the first T20 International.
