Australia set new cricket record in first T20I against Pakistan

LAHORE (Web Desk) – Australia on Thursday set a new ninth-wicket record in T20 cricket during the opening match of the three-game series against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium, but the record was not enough to secure victory.

Adam Zampa and Bartlett added an unbeaten 34-run stand for the ninth wicket, surpassing the previous Australian T20 record of 23 runs set by Clint McKay and Colter Nel.

Chasing 169, Australia struggled against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Earlier, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and chose to bat first. Saim Ayub was the standout performer for the home side, scoring 40 runs off just 22 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes. Salman Ali Agha contributed 39 runs, helping Pakistan post a total of 168 for eight in the allotted 20 overs.

Pakistan beat Australia by 22 runs to take 1-0 lead in T20I series

Australia’s innings began poorly, with six wickets falling before the team reached 100 runs. At 112 for eight, the match appeared to be slipping away. Zampa and Bartlett stabilised the innings with their record ninth-wicket partnership, scoring 5 and 34 runs respectively. Despite their efforts, Australia fell short, finishing 22 runs behind Pakistan at 146 for eight.

With the win, Pakistan takes a 1-0 lead in the T20 series ahead of the T20 World Cup.

.@SaimAyub7 is the player of the match for his all-round heroics #PAKvAUS | #MateWeAreReady | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/vkLUM0mnG7

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 29, 2026

Saim Ayub was named Player of the Match for his explosive 40-run innings, which played a crucial role in setting a challenging target for the visitors.