Pakistan outplay Australia by 22 runs in first T20I at Lahore

Opting to bat first, Pakistan endured a nightmare start when Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed off the very first ball of the innings.

Despite the early blow, the hosts recovered through an aggressive counter-attack led by Saim Ayub and Salman Agha.

The pair added 74 runs off just 46 balls, shifting momentum back in Pakistan's favour with positive intent and clean striking.

Saim Ayub top-scored with a fluent 40 off 22 deliveries, while Salman Agha provided stability with 39 from 27 balls.

Captain Babar Azam chipped in with 24 off 20, but Pakistan struggled to maintain momentum in the latter stages.

Regular wickets at crucial moments prevented them from crossing the 170 mark, and they eventually closed on 168 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Australia's bowling effort was spearheaded by Adam Zampa, who produced an outstanding spell of leg-spin. Zampa finished with figures of 4 for 24, consistently breaking partnerships and keeping the scoring in check.

Chasing a target of 169, Australia never fully settled against a disciplined Pakistan bowling attack. The spinners proved decisive on a surface offering grip and turn, steadily applying pressure through the middle overs.

Saim Ayub claimed two wickets to complement his batting performance, while Abrar Ahmed also struck twice. Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan picked up a wicket apiece as Australia slipped behind the required rate.

Australia were eventually restricted to 146 for 8, falling 22 runs short as Pakistan's spinners played a key role in sealing a deserved opening win.