LAHORE: Pakistan took a 1–0 lead in the three-match T20 series after defeating Australia by 22 runs in the opening match at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha opted to bat first. The hosts posted 168 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs, with Saim Ayub top-scoring with 40.
Pakistan lost Sahibzada Farhan on the first ball, but Ayub and Agha steadied the innings. Salman Ali Agha made 39, while Babar Azam contributed 24. Mohammad Nawaz remained unbeaten on 15.
Adam Zampa led Australia’s bowling with four wickets for 24 runs, while Bartlett and Behrendorff claimed two each.
Chasing 169, Australia were restricted to 146 for 8. Cameron Green scored 36 and Bartlett added 34, but the visitors failed to build sustained partnerships.
For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub picked up two wickets apiece, while Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz took one each.
Australia were led by Travis Head, with Mahli Beardman, Jack Edwards and Matthew Renshaw making their debuts.
The victory gives Pakistan an early advantage in the three-match series.
