Saim Ayub shines as Pakistan delivered a confident performance to defeat Australia by 22 runs in the opening match of the three-match T20I series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The young all-rounder played a decisive role with both bat and ball, setting the tone for the hosts in front of an energetic home crowd.
Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan posted 168 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings started poorly when opener Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed without scoring. Pakistan then found stability through a crucial partnership between Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha, who added 74 runs for the second wicket. Ayub looked fluent and aggressive, scoring 40 off 22 balls, including three fours and two sixes, before being dismissed by Adam Zampa.
Salman Ali Agha continued the momentum with a well-paced 39 off 27 balls, while Babar Azam contributed a steady 24 runs. Late wickets slowed Pakistan’s progress, but Mohammad Nawaz provided a useful unbeaten 15, ensuring a competitive total. For Australia, Adam Zampa was the standout bowler with impressive figures of 4 for 24, supported by Xavier Bartlett and Mahli Beardman, who claimed two wickets each.
In reply, Australia struggled to maintain consistency while chasing 169 runs. They showed early intent, but Saim Ayub struck twice in quick succession, removing Matthew Short and Travis Head, swinging momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favor. A brief resistance came from Cameron Green, who top-scored with 36 off 31 balls, but wickets continued to fall regularly.
Australia slipped to 112 for 8 by the 16th over, effectively ending their chase. Xavier Bartlett played a fighting knock of 34 not out, yet the target proved out of reach as Australia finished on 146 for 8. Alongside Ayub’s two wickets, Abrar Ahmed also claimed two scalps, while Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with one each.
This strong all-round display gives Pakistan early momentum and highlights why Saim Ayub shines as one of the most exciting talents in the squad.
