Pakistan win toss, opt to bat first against Australia in Lahore T20 opener

LAHORE: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bat first against Australia in the opening match of a three-game T20 International series at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday.

Agha said the surface appeared dry and batting first could offer an advantage before conditions change later in the evening. He described Australia as a strong opponent and said Pakistan were ready for the challenge in front of a packed home crowd.

Australia’s Travis Head, speaking at the toss, said his team was looking forward to the contest and expected a competitive match in Lahore.

The three-match series is being viewed as an important tune-up for both sides ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, with teams finalising squads and experimenting with line-ups.

Pakistan bring back senior stars as new captain leads side into crucial home series

Pakistan have included experienced players such as Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, who return to the T20 squad as the team looks to balance youth with experience.

The series marks a significant phase for Pakistan under new leadership, with Salman Ali Agha tasked with guiding the side through a high-profile contest against one of the world’s strongest cricket teams.

Selectors are expected to use the matches to assess combinations, particularly in batting depth and bowling options, before the World Cup begins next month.

Australia rest some regulars but remain dangerous with strong white-ball core

Australia have arrived in Pakistan with a competitive squad, though some senior players have been rested as part of workload management ahead of the global tournament.

Despite absences, Australia’s depth in white-ball cricket remains a major threat, with players such as Travis Head providing firepower at the top of the order.

The matches in Lahore are expected to draw strong fan interest, with tickets reportedly sold out and tight security arrangements in place around the stadium.

All matches scheduled in Lahore

All three games of the series will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, on January 29, January 31 and February 1, giving Lahore a central role in hosting a major international assignment ahead of the World Cup.