Lahore, February 1, 2026—Pakistan completed a dominant 3-0 T20I series whitewash of Australia, powered by a stunning five-wicket haul from spinner Mohammad Nawaz in the third and final match at Gaddafi Stadium.
The win—a 111-run victory—was Pakistan’s strongest performance of the series, sealing the sweep just days before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Nawaz Steals the Show with Career-Best Figures
Left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz was the star, finishing with career-best figures of 5 for 18, his second T20I five-wicket haul, dismantling Australia’s batting line-up as they were bowled out for 96 runs chasing a big target.
Nawaz dismissed key Australian batters, including Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green, with relentless accuracy, turning the match decisively in Pakistan’s favour.
Batting Brilliance Sets Up the Big Win
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bat, and the Green Shirts responded emphatically:
- Saim Ayub—56 off 37 balls
- Babar Azam—50 not out
- Shadab Khan—46 off 19 balls
These key innings helped Pakistan post a commanding 207-6—one of their most significant T20I totals against Australia—setting a daunting target that Australia never came close to.
Bowling Depth Completes the Sweep
Nawaz led the bowling charge, but Pakistan’s attack was strong all around:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi—2 wickets
- Abrar Ahmed—1 wicket
- Naseem Shah—1 wicket
Their disciplined bowling and tight fielding repeatedly restricted Australia, contributing to the comprehensive series result.
Series Summary: Pakistan’s Dominance
Across the three matches in Lahore:
📅 1st T20I: Pakistan won by 22 runs
📅 2nd T20I: Pakistan won by 90 runs
📅 3rd T20I: Pakistan won by 111 runs—clinching the clean sweep.
This clean sweep underscores Pakistan’s all-around superiority in both batting and bowling against a strong Australian side, even if some key Australian players were absent.
Historic Context & World Cup Momentum
Pakistan’s 3-0 whitewash is their most emphatic T20I series victory over Australia and their heaviest win margin in this format since past meetings.
With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 set to begin on February 7, this result provides a massive confidence boost for Pakistan.
Key Stats & Highlights
- Target defended: 207
- Australia all out for 96
- Nawaz’s bowling figures: 5/18
- Highest contributions: Saim Ayub (56), Babar Azam (50*)
Pakistan’s balanced performance—batting depth and bowling strength. Shows their readiness for the global T20 stage, especially given that spin dominates play.
Reactions & Takeaways
Pakistan fans and cricket pundits alike praised Nawaz’s spell as a match-winning performance that turned the series on its head. Spin dominance and disciplined bowling will be key talking points ahead of the World Cup.
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh acknowledged the challenge, highlighting Pakistan’s effective spin attack as a significant factor in their series defeat.
What It Means Going Forward
This series whitewash not only boosts Pakistan’s morale but also sends a strong message to rivals ahead of the T20 World Cup. With all departments firing, the Men in Green will be considered serious contenders in the global event. (The Express Tribune)