Sydney, Australia – Spencer Johnson achieved a remarkable milestone by claiming his maiden international five-wicket haul, guiding Australia to a 13-run victory over Pakistan in the second T20I, thereby securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Johnson Shines with the Ball
The 28-year-old pace bowler delivered an outstanding performance, taking 5 wickets for just 26 runs. His efforts dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup, dismissing them for 134 after they had been set a target of 148. Johnson made an immediate impact, taking three wickets early on, which left Pakistan struggling at 44-4.
Though Usman Khan fought back for the visitors with a resilient half-century—scoring 52—Johnson was determined to keep the pressure on. He ultimately dismissed Khan and later took the final wicket of Abbas Afridi to complete his five-wicket haul.
Irfan Khan tried to lead a counter-offensive, scoring an unbeaten 37 runs, but Pakistan fell short, being bowled out with just 13 runs needed to win when Haris Rauf was run out.
“It’s an opportunity I don’t take lightly – I’m privileged to be wearing the green and gold,” Johnson reflected after the match. “You never know when your last game is going to be for Australia, so every game is a bonus. Hopefully, I can play a couple more.”
Australian Batting Struggles
Earlier in the match, Australia opted to bat first, managing to score 147 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. The innings started explosively, with Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short contributing to a blistering 50 runs in just 3.1 overs. However, Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Haris Rauf (4-22) and Abbas Afridi (3-17), bounced back, restricting the Australian total significantly despite a few dropped catches.
Fraser-McGurk was dismissed for 20, and Captain Josh Inglis fell for a duck just two deliveries later. Short managed to score 32 but was also sent back to the pavilion. Glenn Maxwell contributed 21 runs before falling to Rauf, leaving Australia in a precarious position at 95-5.
The Final Showdown Ahead
With the series already in Australia’s favor, all eyes now turn to the third and final T20 match, scheduled for November 18 in Hobart. Pakistan, having won the preceding one-day international series 2-1, will be eager to end their T20 campaign on a high note and avoid a series whitewash.
Australia’s convincing win sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the series in Hobart.
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