The first T20I between Australia and Pakistan was marred by rain and the contest was curtailed to seven overs. Australia defended 93 runs and won the match by 29. Mohammad Rizwan’s team was unable to match the asking rate and manged 69/9 in 7 overs. Former Pakistan opener Ahmad Shahzad lost cool on the visitors for their battling collapse.
Glenn Maxwell was the top scorer as he amassed 43 off 19 deliveries, laced with five fours and three sixes. Marcus Stoinis’ cameo of 21 runs off 7 balls also played a key role in Australia’s total. He struck two fours and 1 six. Abbas Afridi took two wickets, while Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah dismissed one batter each.
Considering the way T20 cricket is played these days, Pakistan were favourites but the batters didn’t show any will. Rizwan (0) and Babar Azam (3) failed to get going.
Abbas (20) was the highest run-scorer for Pakistan. Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis claimed three wickets each, respectively.
Shahzad took a dig at the batters. “Such a Shameful display from Pakistan batsmen. Looks like Pakistan’s on a runaway train,” he wrote on X.
https://twitter.com/iamAhmadshahzad/status/1857024108325671017
He also highlighted some positives for Pakistan.
“It was a truly disappointing performance put on by this Pakistan batting lineup. Youngsters showed intent, Sahibzada, Haseebullah & Abbas tried putting on a fight but ALAS. It’s a team game, Pakistan bowling won’t help you survive every day. Seniors need to step up their game in the batting department, shot selections weren’t up to the mark. If we compare Pakistan to the world, Power is missing. Pakistan never looked ready after the rain, with all being said I still wish Pakistan all the best for the remaining matches.”
https://twitter.com/iamAhmadshahzad/status/1857031356464685166
The second T20I will take place on November 16.
