Australia secured a 13-run victory over Pakistan in a thrilling low-scoring T20I in Sydney, taking the series 2-0. After posting a modest 147 for 9, Australia’s bowlers, led by Spencer Johnson’s remarkable 5 for 26, defended the total with discipline. Johnson’s wickets at both ends of the innings helped keep Pakistan under control, while supporting efforts from Adam Zampa (2 for 19) added to the pressure.
Australia’s innings started explosively, racing to 50 in just 3.1 overs, their fastest ever in a T20I. However, Pakistan, led by Haris Rauf, fought back through the middle overs. Despite their fielding lapses, which included missed chances from Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan remained in the hunt. Poor fielding proved costly for Pakistan, with multiple dropped catches, including one from Babar Azam and another by Salman Agha.
Pakistan’s chase was hampered by a slow start, as they struggled to find boundaries early on. Mohammad Rizwan’s unusual knock, which featured more singles and dot balls than attacking shots, only added to the mounting pressure. As the asking rate climbed, Pakistan’s top order crumbled. Rizwan was dismissed in the 10th over, followed by several others, leaving the lower order with too much to do.
Despite a strong fightback from Usman Khan (52) and Irfan Khan (37*), Pakistan fell short. Johnson’s extra pace proved pivotal, as he claimed key wickets during the middle overs, with a final burst of two wickets in an over to seal the win. Australia’s all-around effort and Pakistan’s missed opportunities led to a deserved victory for the hosts.
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