Pakistan took an early lead in the T20I series after defeating Australia by 22 runs in the opening match of the three-match T20I series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday.

Batting first, Pakistan posted 168 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Saim Ayub top-scored with a brisk 40 off 22 balls, while captain Salman Agha added 39 from 27 deliveries. Babar Azam contributed 24 as Pakistan maintained a steady run rate despite regular wickets.

Spinners shine with a disciplined show 💫

Pakistan secure a comfortable 22-run win over Australia in the first T20I 👏#PAKvAUS | #MateWeAreReady | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/gJYudwmvm6
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 29, 2026

Usman Khan scored 14-ball 18, lacing with two boundaries. Shadab Khan (1) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (0) failed to show any resistance with bat.

Mohammad Nawaz (15) and Salman Mirza (4) remained unbeaten.

For Australia, Adam Zampa spearheaded the bowling attack, scooping four wickets. Xavier Bartlett (2-26) and Mahli Beardman (2-33) scooped up two wickets apiece.

Cooper Connolly, Matthew Short, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green remained wicketless.

In reply, Australia were restricted to 146 for 8. Cameron Green anchored the chase with 36, while Xavier Bartlett remained unbeaten on 34. However, the required rate continued to rise as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Abrar Ahmed proved decisive for Pakistan, returning figures of 2 for 10 in four overs. Saim Ayub also claimed two wickets, while Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan chipped in with one apiece.

The result gives Pakistan a 1–0 lead in the series.