Pakistan delivered a comprehensive 90-run victory over Australia in the second T20 International in Lahore, sealing an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series with a performance that showcased their World Cup credentials.
Captain Salman Ali Agha led from the front with a blistering 40-ball 76, while Usman Khan contributed a crucial 36-ball 53 as Pakistan posted their highest-ever T20I total against Australia at 198-5. The team demonstrated exceptional finishing, adding 61 runs in the final five overs.
'It has to be a perfect game. We batted well and then were outstanding with the ball. Fielding was outstanding,' Agha said, summarizing Pakistan's dominant display across all departments.
Australia's response collapsed dramatically, managing only 108 runs in 15.4 overs. Pakistan's spin attack proved devastating, with all ten wickets shared among the slow bowlers. Abrar Ahmed claimed 3-14 while Shadab Khan finished with 3-26, exploiting favorable conditions perfectly.
The victory represents Pakistan's largest-ever T20I win over Australia, surpassing their previous best margin of 66 runs achieved in 2018. The comprehensive nature of the win provides significant momentum heading into the T20 World Cup beginning February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.
These warm-up matches served their purpose for Pakistan, demonstrating both batting depth and bowling variety. Australia, meanwhile, will need to reassess their approach to subcontinental conditions ahead of the World Cup, particularly against quality spin bowling.