All eyes on Saim ahead of Pakistan vs Australia second T20I

Pak vs Aus

The second T20 international between Pakistan and Australia will be played on Saturday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with the hosts holding a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The match timing will be the same as before, to start at 4pm. The match comes just two days after Pakistan’s convincing win in the opening game, which set the tone for the contest.

Saim Ayub: game changer

Saim Ayub played a central role in Pakistan’s win, not only with the bat but also with the ball. Australia started their chase positively, but Pakistan’s spinners soon took control.

Ayub sent two batters to the pavilion and kept the pressure on, while Abrar Ahmed delivered an outstanding spell, taking two wickets for just 10 runs. Australia struggled to keep up with the required run rate and slipped from a strong position to finish on 146 for eight.

According to the Men’s all-rounder rankings of the International Cricket Council (ICC), he is currently holding second position with a strong grip on both fields.

No changes

As per the latest information, there are no major changes in both teams for the second round of the international T20 series. However, Mitchell Marsh is the official captain of the Australian team and was on rest for the first T20I. It is expected that he will take charge as a captain tomorrow and lead his team.

Pakistan leads in first T20I

Pakistan claimed a 22-run victory in the first T20I, recovering well after an early setback. Opener Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed on the first ball, but Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha steadied the innings with a key partnership. Ayub scored 40, while Agha added 39, helping Pakistan reach 168 for eight.

Talking about the Australian bowling attack, Adam Zampa was great with the ball, finishing with four wickets and keeping the target within reach, but unfortunately, the batting line could not make it to the target.

Also Read: Pakistan claim victory against Australia after seven years