AUS vs PAK 1st T20I Highlights: Australia Wins by 29 Runs
The first T20I of the three-match series between Australia and Pakistan in Perth saw the hosts dominate, winning by a comfortable 29 runs. The thrilling encounter showcased a display of powerful hitting, impressive bowling, and some crucial moments that turned the tide in Australia's favor.
Australia's Explosive Start
The Aussies set the tone right from the start. Matthew Wade and Cameron Green opened the innings with a blazing partnership, scoring 77 runs in just 6.2 overs. Wade particularly looked in fine form, smashing 41 runs off just 17 balls, including five sixes.
Pakistan's Bowling Struggles
Pakistan's bowlers struggled to contain the Australian onslaught. Shaheen Afridi was particularly expensive, conceding 46 runs in his four overs. Haris Rauf, despite picking up a couple of wickets, also went for 49 runs in his spell.
Australia's Strong Finish
After Wade's dismissal, Glenn Maxwell continued the momentum with a quickfire knock of 38 runs off 22 balls. Tim David also made a crucial contribution, scoring 28 runs in 14 balls. Australia finished their innings on a strong 205/5, setting a formidable target for Pakistan.
Pakistan's Chase Falls Short
Chasing 206, Pakistan got off to a shaky start, losing Mohammad Rizwan early. Babar Azam held the innings together with a well-compiled 66 runs, but he lacked the support he needed.
Starc's Crucial Breakthrough
Mitchell Starc proved to be the difference-maker, dismissing Babar Azam in the 14th over. This wicket triggered a collapse, and Pakistan lost wickets in quick succession.
Pakistan's Middle Order Fails to Deliver
The Pakistani middle-order failed to capitalize on a good start, with none of the batsmen managing to score a substantial amount of runs. Shadab Khan was the only other batsman to reach double figures.
Australia's Bowling Dominance
Australia's bowlers, particularly Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Adam Zampa, kept a tight lid on the Pakistani run-scoring. Starc ended with impressive figures of 3/38, while Zampa picked up 2/26.
Final Result: Australia Wins by 29 Runs
In the end, Pakistan fell well short of the target, finishing their innings on 176/8. Australia won the first T20I by a comfortable 29 runs, taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the series.
Key Takeaways:
- Australia's explosive batting proved too much for Pakistan.
- Matthew Wade's blistering innings was the highlight of the match.
- Mitchell Starc's crucial wicket of Babar Azam turned the tide in Australia's favor.
- Pakistan's middle order failed to deliver the required runs.
The second T20I of the series is scheduled to be played on Friday, November 4th in Canberra. With Australia in great form and Pakistan needing to regroup, the series is set for an exciting finish.