Australia Completes 3-0 T20 Series Sweep Over Pakistan
Australia's dominance in the shortest format continued as they completed a comprehensive 3-0 T20 series victory over Pakistan with a convincing seven-wicket win in Hobart. Marcus Stoinis' blistering unbeaten 61 off just 27 balls proved to be the catalyst for Australia's triumph.
Pakistan, who had triumphed in the preceding ODI series 2-1, were outplayed in the T20 format. Their batting faltered, mustering a mere 117 in 19 overs, with Babar Azam's 41 being the highest individual score. Aaron Hardie emerged as the standout bowler for Australia, claiming 3-21.
In response, Australia chased down the target with ease, reaching the victory mark in the 12th over. Skipper Josh Inglis expressed his delight at the series sweep, highlighting Stoinis' devastating performance. "When he's going like that, it's really hard to stop," Inglis said.
Stoinis' innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring five sixes and five fours. He forged a crucial 55-run partnership with Inglis (27) to put Australia in control. The victory capped off a dominant series for the hosts, who had won the first two matches in Brisbane and Sydney by comfortable margins.
Pakistan's batting woes were evident from the outset. They lost wickets regularly and failed to build any substantial partnerships. Shaheen Shah Afridi's solitary six was a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing display.
"There's lots of positives, the way some of the players batted and bowled, these youngsters will come good," said Salman Agha, Pakistan's skipper for the night.
Australia's chase was a formality. Fraser-McGurk and Short got off to a flying start, but Short's dismissal for two opened the door for Stoinis to take center stage. He shared a match-winning partnership with Inglis, effectively ending the contest.
Stoinis' half-century came off just 23 balls, underlining his status as one of the most destructive batsmen in the world. His innings featured a flurry of sixes and fours, leaving the Pakistani bowlers helpless.
Australia's victory was a testament to their superior firepower and execution in the shortest format. Pakistan, despite their ODI success, were unable to match the hosts' intensity and skill in the T20 series.
Tags: #Cricket, #T20, #Australia, #Pakistan, #MarcusStoinis
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