Pakistan capped a dominant T20I series with a comprehensive 111-run victory over Australia in Lahore, completing a 3-0 whitewash ahead of the T20 World Cup. Chasing 208, the visitors crumbled for just 96, suffering their biggest defeat in T20I history, eclipsing the 100-run loss to England in 2005.
Opener Saim Ayub (56) set the tone with an aggressive half-century, while Babar Azam regained fluency with a confident 50*, anchoring Pakistan’s total of 207 for 6. Shadab Khan’s 46 off 19 balls ensured a massive finish, striking five sixes at the death to stretch the scoreboard. Left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz then ran through the Australian line-up with 5 for 18, complemented by Shaheen Shah Afridi’s early breakthroughs, as Australia never recovered.
Australia’s batting woes were compounded by an under-strength line-up, with opener Matthew Short, allrounder Mitchell Owen, and Josh Philippe making appearances despite not being part of the World Cup squad. The visitors collapsed to 16 for 3 inside three overs, with spin once again exposing a frail middle order. Cameron Green provided a rare bright spot, scoring 22 off 24 balls in the final game, but it was too little too late.
The series also marked a return to form for Babar Azam, who countered early pressure and poor performances in previous matches with precise strokeplay and smart running. Shaheen’s menacing swing and Nawaz’s unplayable variations highlighted the depth and versatility of Pakistan’s bowling attack, leaving the Australians bewildered throughout.
With the sweep complete, Pakistan head into the T20 World Cup on a wave of confidence, having showcased a balanced batting line-up and a formidable bowling unit. Australia, meanwhile, must regroup after a demoralising series loss and address glaring vulnerabilities before the showpiece event in Sri Lanka.
