Due to heavy rain, the first T20 International between Australia and Pakistan in Brisbane turned into a high-scoring, rapid-fire match. The match went to a seven-over shootout, which Australia won by a relaxed margin of 29 runs. Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first, banking on their bowling attack to limit Australia’s formidable batting lineup. However, their plans were quickly disrupted by the Aussies’ rather aggressive batting performance.
Openers of Australia deliver early boost
Due to heavy rain, the first T20 International between Australia and Pakistan in Brisbane turned into a high-scoring, rapid-fire match. The match went to a seven-over shootout, which Australia won by a relaxed margin of 29 runs. Pakistan won the toss and chose to field first, banking on their bowling attack to limit Australia’s formidable batting lineup. However, their plans were quickly disrupted by the Aussies’ rather aggressive batting performance.
Maxwell takes centre stage
With two wickets down, the seasoned Glenn Maxwell took the crease. The right-handed batter lived up to his reputation, tearing up Pakistan’s bowling attack. He hit five boundaries and three sixes in his sensational 19-ball knock, collecting a match-winning 43 runs. Besides, Marcus Stoinis offered important help at the other end by scoring 21 runs off just seven deliveries to finish unblemished.
Australia set a formidable target
Aussies took complete advantage of the game’s short format, scoring 93 runs for four wickets in their fixed seven overs. Furthermore, Pakistan’s bowlers were unable to control the attack, with only Abbas Afridi finishing with adequate figures of 2-9.
Pakistan’s chase falters
Chasing 94 runs in seven overs was always going to be a difficult task for Pakistan. Their innings mirrored Australia’s, with openers Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam leaving early. However, they were unable match or equal Maxwell’s brilliance.
Afridi provides brief resistance
Pakistan’s middle-order batsman Abbas Afridi provided brief resistance, scoring 20 runs in 10 balls. However, he lacked help from the other batsmen and wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.
Bowlers of Australia seal the win
Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis led an excellent Australian bowling attack. Both bowlers claimed three wickets each, crushing Pakistan’s odds of a comeback. Adam Zampa also delivered two crucial wickets in a single over, giving his team an imposing lead in the rain-shortened battle.
Inglis’ bowling performance
During the post-match talks, the Australian captain Josh Inglis praised his bowling attack for their excellent performance. He acknowledged the difficulties of bowling in a T20 match, but praised the bowlers’ experience, especially Xavier Bartlett’s familiarity with the Gabba pitch. “All the bowlers were great tonight,” Inglis said. “Helps with Xavier and Nathan Ellis playing a lot of T20 cricket at the Gabba. Taking early wickets in short chases is crucial.”
Pakistan hoping for a comeback
Pakistan will strive to bounce back in the second T20I of the series after this overwhelming defeat.
Looking ahead
This victory offers Aussies much-required confidence after a humbling loss to Pakistan in the ODI series. Thus, they will be packed with confidence heading into the next T20I, which is scheduled on November 17 in the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Key takeaways
- Australia smashed Pakistan by 29 runs in a rain-shortened T20I match.
- Glenn Maxwell’s daring knock of 43 runs (19 balls) propelled his team to a strong total score.
- Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis scored three wickets each.
- The triumph gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.
Australia will look to continue their winning momentum when they take on Pakistan in the second T20I. Both teams will be using this series as a chance to hone their tactics and abilities in preparation for the next T20 World Cup.
