Pakistan defeated Australia by 90 runs in the second T20I in Lahore on Friday, January 31, 2026, securing the three-match series 2-0. This marks Pakistan's first T20I series win against Australia since 2018. The victory serves as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup.
Pakistan's captain, Salman Agha, led from the front, scoring a blistering 76 off 40 balls, his highest in the T20I format. Usman Khan supported him well with a timely 53 off 36 deliveries. Their combined efforts propelled Pakistan to 198-5, their highest-ever T20I total against Australia. Despite early breakthroughs from Matthew Kuhnemann and Adam Zampa, Pakistan maintained a strong batting performance throughout their innings.
In response, Australia's chase went awry almost immediately. Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack, particularly the spin quintet, dismantled the Australian batting lineup. Australia were bundled out for a mere 108 in 15.4 overs. Abrar Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3-14, while Shadab Khan also bagged 3-26. Shadab Khan was the standout with a 3-wicket haul, dismissing Xavier Bartlett and Sean Abbott. His accuracy and clever variations had Australia struggling. Cameron Green offered some resistance with a quick 35 off 20 balls, but his dismissal in the 11th over triggered a final collapse. Wickets fell in clusters, and the Australians had no answers to the scoreboard pressure.
Salman Agha was named Player of the Match, expressing his delight with Pakistan's performance, calling it a "perfect game". He lauded the team's strong batting and bowling performance in the powerplay, which helped them to finish the game early. Mitchell Marsh, Australia's captain, acknowledged Pakistan's superior performance in the first two games and expressed hope that his team could learn from their mistakes and improve in the next match.
With the series already in their bag, Pakistan will be aiming for a clean sweep in the final T20I. Australia, on the other hand, will be playing for pride, hoping to salvage a win and avoid a whitewash. The third and final T20I is scheduled for Sunday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
