LAHORE: Pakistan posted a record-breaking performance to overwhelm Australia by 90 runs in the second Twenty20 international at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, taking a commanding lead in the three-match series.
Put in to bat, Pakistan piled up 198 for five — their highest T20I total against Australia — powered by aggressive half-centuries from captain Salman Ali Agha and wicketkeeper-batsman Usman Khan.
Agha struck a fluent 76 off 40 balls, smashing eight fours and four sixes, while Usman added 53 from 36 deliveries, including six boundaries. Their efforts surpassed Pakistan’s previous best of 194 against Australia set in 2018.
Australia’s chase of 199 quickly unraveled as Pakistan’s spinners delivered a historic bowling display, claiming all 10 wickets — a rare feat in T20 internationals.
Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan led the attack with three wickets each, while Usman Tariq took two. Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with one apiece as Australia were bowled out for 108 in 15.4 overs.
The margin of victory marked Pakistan’s biggest T20I win over Australia, eclipsing their 66-run success in 2018.