Sat Nov 16 14:36:29 UTC 2024: ## Australia Wins Second T20I Against Pakistan by 13 Runs, Takes 2-0 Series Lead
**Sydney, Australia:** Australia defeated Pakistan by 13 runs in the second T20I at Sydney Cricket Ground, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan attributed the loss to crucial dropped catches and acknowledged the strong bowling performance by the Australians.
Australia, winning the toss and batting first, posted a total of 147 all out. Matthew Short top-scored with 32, while Haris Rauf was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers, taking an impressive 4/22 – the best T20I bowling figures by a Pakistani against Australia on Australian soil. Spencer Johnson’s outstanding five-wicket haul (5/26) was the catalyst for Australia’s victory.
Pakistan’s chase faltered early, losing wickets regularly despite a 52-run contribution from Usman Khan. Johnson’s five-wicket haul proved too much for the Pakistani batting order, who were eventually bowled out for 134. Adam Zampa also impressed with figures of 2/19.
Despite praising his bowlers, Rizwan highlighted dropped catches as a key factor in Pakistan’s defeat. He remained undecided about potential team changes for the final T20I in Hobart. Australia will aim for a clean sweep in the series decider.
First Piper 