Sydney : Australia defeated Pakistan by 13 runs at SCG, Sydney and clinched 3 match T20I series 2-0. Spencer Johnson’s 5-fer helped Australia achieve the feat.
Defending below par 148 runs, Johnson (5/26) rattled the Pakistani top order, as they’re reduced to 44-4 (9.3).
Usman (52) & Irfan Khan (37*) notched up crucial 58 runs partnership to bring Pakistan back on track.
However, following Usman’s dismissal, the lower order yet again began to collapse in front of Johnson and Adam Zampa (2/19).
Irfan took an aggressive mode and smashed Nathan Ellis for 17 runs in 18th over.
With 1 wicket in hand, Pakistan required 16 runs in last over of Ellis. Irfan’s run out in very 3rd Ball of the over sealed the deal for Australia as Pakistan got bundled out for 134 runs.
In 1st innings, Jake Fraser McGurk (20) & Matthew Short (32) gave fiery start to Australia. However, their middle order fumbled and run flow stopped after solid 52 runs opening stand in 4 overs.
Haris Rauf (4/22), Abbas Afridi (3/17), Sufiyan Muqeem (2/21) played key role in this.
Aaron Hardie (28) cameo brought Aussies to fighting but below par total of 147-9 (20).
Johnson was adjourned the man of the match for his heroics. The 2 teams will meet each other on November 18, 2024 , at Hobart, for 3rd and final T20I.
Brief Scorecard :
1st Innings :
AUS : 147-9 (20)
Matthew Short : 32 (17)
PAK :
Haris Rauf : 4/22
2nd Innings :
PAK : 134 (19.4)
Usman Khan : 52 (38)
AUS :
Spencer Johnson : 5/26
Result : Australia win by 13 Runs.
