Glenn Maxwell’s explosive innings, paired with a formidable bowling display, propelled Australia to a dominant 29-run triumph over Pakistan in the rain-interrupted first T20I at The Gabba on Thursday.
In pursuit of a target set at 94 runs, Pakistan could only muster 64 runs.
The visitors began with promise, accumulating 12 runs with the loss of one wicket in the initial over. However, a catastrophic middle-order collapse ensued, leading to the quick dismissals of key players Babar Azam, who managed only 3, and Mohammad Rizwan, who departed without scoring. Pakistan found themselves reeling at 20/5 by the end of the third over.
Xavier Bartlett was instrumental in dismantling Pakistan’s innings, claiming two crucial wickets in his opening over and then dispatching Salman Ali Agha for just 4 runs.
Bartlett concluded with remarkable figures of 13/3 from his two overs, maintaining relentless pressure on Pakistan throughout their chase.
Glenn Maxwell was named Man of the Match for his spectacular batting performance. His electrifying innings came to an end when he was caught by Usman Khan at deep square leg off Abbas Afridi’s bowling. Maxwell’s knock of 43 was crafted from just 19 deliveries, featuring eight boundaries, three of which soared for six.
In the same over, Abbas struck again, removing Tim David for 9, who fell to a catch by Irfan Khan at deep midwicket. However, Stoinis took command in the final over, thrashing Naseem for 20 runs, which included two fours and a six, elevating Australia’s score to 93-4.
Stoinis remained unbeaten on an exhilarating 21 from merely 7 balls, while for Pakistan, Abbas Afridi claimed two wickets, with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf each taking one.