Sun Feb 01 11:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Pakistan Breaks Eight-Year T20 Drought Against Under-Strength Australia
The Story:
Pakistan defeated Australia by 22 runs in the first T20 match in Lahore on January 29, 2026, marking their first T20 victory against Australia in eight years. The win came against an under-strength Australian side, missing five World Cup players and resting captain Mitchell Marsh, in a series held just a week before the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s spin attack proved decisive, restricting Australia to 146-8 in response to Pakistan’s 168-8.
Key Points:
- Pakistan won the first T20 against Australia by 22 runs on January 29, 2026, ending an eight-year losing streak.
- Australia was missing five World Cup players and rested captain Mitchell Marsh.
- Pakistan’s spin quartet (Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz) took six wickets.
- Abrar Ahmed led the bowling attack with 2-10 off four overs.
- Saim Ayub contributed with 40 runs and 2 wickets.
- Adam Zampa took 4-24 for Australia.
- Pakistan went on to win the T20 series.
Key Takeaways:
- Pakistan’s spin bowling prowess proved crucial in securing the victory.
- Australia’s weakened squad contributed to their defeat, raising questions about their preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
- The victory provides a significant confidence boost for Pakistan heading into the World Cup.
- Adam Zampa’s performance indicates he remains a key threat for Australia despite the team’s overall struggles in the match.
- Pakistan went on to win the T20 series against Australia after this match.
First Piper 