Australia secured a series victory against Pakistan by winning the second T20I, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
The match was marked by impressive performances from Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan, but it was Pakistan’s poor batting that ultimately sealed the win for Australia.
Chasing 148 for victory, Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start. Babar Azam was dismissed for just 3 runs, caught by Xavier Bartlett off Spencer Johnson in the second over. Johnson continued to wreak havoc, claiming the wickets of Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan, Salman Agha, and Abbas Afridi, finishing with remarkable figures of 5/26.
Usman Khan was the lone bright spot for Pakistan, scoring 52 off 38 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Irfan Khan provided some resistance with an unbeaten 37 off 28 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Adam Zampa also played a crucial role, taking two wickets for 19 runs, including the dismissals of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.
Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 134 in 19.4 overs by Australia, falling 13 runs short of the target. The Australian bowlers, led by Johnson, executed their plans effectively, with Bartlett and Zampa providing excellent support.
Spencer Johnson’s five-wicket haul was instrumental in Australia’s victory, earning him the Player of the Match award. His ability to take crucial wickets at regular intervals kept Pakistan on the back foot throughout their innings.
With this win, Australia has secured the series, showcasing their depth and resilience in both batting and bowling. The final match of the series will be an opportunity for Pakistan to salvage some pride and for Australia to complete a clean sweep.