LAHORE (AM Khan): Pakistan delivered a commanding all-round performance to crush Australia by 111 runs in the third and final T20I at a jam-packed Gaddafi Stadium, completing a memorable series whitewash and reinforcing their dominance in home conditions.
More than 32,000 passionate spectators filled the iconic Lahore venue, creating a vibrant atmosphere as Pakistan produced one of their most comprehensive victories against the visiting Australian side. The crowd not only cheered the home team but also applauded quality cricket from both sides, chanting slogans of confidence ahead of future global tournaments.
After winning the toss, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 207-6 in their allotted 20 overs, courtesy of impressive contributions from the top and middle order. Young opener Saim Ayub led the batting charge with an aggressive 56 off 37 deliveries, striking six boundaries and two towering sixes. Fakhar Zaman provided early momentum with a brisk 10 off seven balls before captain Salman Agha chipped in briefly.
The innings was expertly anchored by former captain Babar Azam, who remained unbeaten on 50 off 36 balls, displaying calm authority and ensuring stability through the middle overs. Khawaja Nafay added quick runs with a valuable 21 from just 12 deliveries, while vice-captain Shadab Khan electrified the crowd with a blistering 46 off only 19 balls, smashing five sixes and two boundaries. Faheem Ashraf applied the finishing touches with a quick-fire unbeaten 10, helping Pakistan cross the 200-run mark.
Australia’s bowling attack struggled to contain Pakistan’s aggressive batting display. Ben Dwarshuis was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets, while Matthew Kuhnemann, Cameron Green, Matthew Short and Cooper Connolly picked up one wicket each.
Chasing a daunting target of 208, Australia’s batting lineup collapsed under sustained pressure from Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. The visitors never recovered after losing early wickets, with Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw dismissed cheaply. Left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi set the tone with two crucial early breakthroughs, but it was all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz who dismantled Australia’s batting order with a remarkable five-wicket haul, conceding just 18 runs in his four overs.
Abrar Ahmed and Naseem Shah also played vital supporting roles, claiming one wicket each. Australia were bowled out for just 96 runs in 16.5 overs, with Cameron Green (22) and Marcus Stoinis (23) offering brief resistance, but failing to mount a serious challenge against Pakistan’s relentless bowling attack.
The victory not only secured a clean sweep in the three-match series but also highlighted Pakistan’s growing strength in T20 cricket. With a balanced combination of explosive batting, versatile spin options and disciplined pace bowling, Pakistan once again demonstrated their formidable record in home conditions.
NAQVI CONGRATS PAKISTAN TEAM ON HISTORIC T20I SERIES WIN
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the national cricket team on completing a clean sweep against Australia in the T20I series, praising the players for their outstanding teamwork and consistent performances across all three matches.
Naqvi said the series victory was the result of the players’ tireless hard work and continued commitment, describing the achievement as highly commendable, especially against a strong side like Australia. He extended heartfelt congratulations to head coach Mike Hesson, captain Salman Agha, and the entire squad for their collective effort. Naqvi added that the national players delivered excellent performances throughout the series, meeting the expectations of cricket fans. He expressed confidence that the team would continue its winning momentum in the future.
The prize distribution ceremony was held at Gaddafi Stadium, where Mohsin Naqvi, along with Australian High Commissioner Timothy Cane, presented the T20I series trophy to Pakistan captain Salman Agha. Awards were also distributed among players for outstanding performances during the series and individual matches. Naqvi also met with the ground staff, appreciating their efforts in preparing high-quality pitches. He lauded their hard work and encouraged them for their contribution to the successful conduct of the series.
English