Lahore, Pakistan – Pakistan and Australia are set to clash in the second T20I of their three-match series today at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Pakistan leads the series 1-0 after securing a 22-run victory in the opening match at the same venue. The series serves as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, starting on February 7th.
Pakistan will be aiming to seal the series with a win today, while Australia, are looking to bounce back. The match is scheduled to start at 4:30 PM IST.
In the first T20I, Pakistan opted to bat first after winning the toss, posting a total of 168/8. Saim Ayub's quickfire 40 and captain Salman Agha's 39 were instrumental in the innings. Babar Azam contributed 24 runs. Australia's Adam Zampa was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4 wickets for 24 runs.
Australia's chase faltered, as they were restricted to 146/8. Cameron Green top-scored with 36, but the rest of the batting order struggled to build partnerships. Pakistan's spin attack, led by Abrar Ahmed (2/10), along with Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, proved difficult to handle on a surface that offered grip and turn.
Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, and Marcus Stoinis are expected to be available for Australia in this match, after being rested for the first T20I following the Big Bash League Season 15 finals. Mitchell Marsh will also take over the captaincy from Travis Head. In the first T20I, Australia handed debuts to three players.
Pakistan will look for a stronger performance from Babar Azam, while Sahibzada Farhan will be keen to make an impact at the top of the order after being dismissed on the first ball in the previous match. Mohammad Wasim Jr. has been released from Pakistan's T20I squad for the remainder of the series.
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch in Lahore assisted the spinners in the first T20I. It remains to be seen if the pitch conditions will change for today’s match.
For viewers in Australia, Fox Cricket will broadcast the match. In the United Kingdom, live streaming will be available on the PCB Live app. There will be no live telecast in India due to political constraints.
