Pakistan set Australia 199 to win in second T20I

LAHORE: Pakistan posted 198 for 5 in 20 overs against Australia in the second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, setting the visitors a challenging target of 199. Winning the toss and opting to bat first proved a smart move for the hosts.

The innings got off to a shaky start as opener Sahibzada Farhan fell cheaply for 5, but Saim Ayub responded with a brief but aggressive 23 off 11 balls, keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Captain Salman Agha anchored the innings in style, scoring 76 off 40 balls with 8 fours and 4 sixes, laying the foundation for a big total. Babar Azam struggled for form, contributing just 2 runs, but wicketkeeper-batsman Usman Khan provided stability with 52 off 35 balls to push Pakistan past the 150-run mark.

The innings closed with fireworks as Shadab Khan remained unbeaten on 29, while Mohammad Nawaz added 9 from just 3 deliveries in the final over, maintaining a brisk scoring rate.

From Australia’s side, Adam Zampa was the most economical, while other bowlers chipped in with a wicket apiece.

Pakistan’s aggressive finish saw them add 59 runs in the last five overs, setting up a thrilling chase for Australia. The visitors now face the task of negotiating a steep 199-run target on a lively Lahore pitch.