Maxwell’s Power and Pace Domination Lead Australia to Victory Over Pakistan in Rain-Shortened T20I

Australia clinched a commanding 29-run victory over Pakistan in the rain-affected first T20I at The Gabba on Thursday, with Glenn Maxwell’s explosive innings and an impressive pace attack dismantling Pakistan’s batting order.

Chasing a steep target of 94 runs in just seven overs, Pakistan struggled from the outset and ended at 64-9. Their chase faltered immediately, with six wickets falling within 3.2 overs and only 24 runs on the board. None of the top six batters managed to reach double digits, reflecting the intensity of Australia’s pace bowling.

Haseebullah Khan (12) and Abbas Afridi attempted to stabilize the innings with a 23-run partnership for the seventh wicket, before Haseebullah was dismissed by Nathan Ellis. Adam Zampa then sealed Australia’s win, bowling out Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah with consecutive deliveries. Abbas Afridi finished unbeaten with a spirited 20 off 10 balls, which included two fours and a six.

Earlier, Australia’s innings was powered by Maxwell, who smashed 43 runs, and Marcus Stoinis, who added a quick 21. They took Australia to 93-4 in the allotted seven overs, handling Pakistan’s renowned pace attack with ease.

After being invited to bat first by Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan, Australia started strong, scoring 16 runs in the opening over. Despite Jake Fraser-McGurk’s quick dismissal for 9, Maxwell’s aggressive response, including four boundaries off Naseem Shah, brought the score to 33-1 in two overs.

Although Haris Rauf restored some control for Pakistan by conceding only three runs and dismissing Matthew Short (7), it wasn’t enough to contain Australia’s explosive start.

The match, reduced to seven overs due to rain and thunderstorms, showcased Australia’s ability to adapt quickly and capitalize on limited-overs cricket, handing Pakistan a resounding defeat in the opening game.