Pakistan delivered a commanding performance to defeat Australia by 111 runs in the third and final T20 international in Lahore, completing a series whitewash.
The margin of victory was the largest ever by any team against Australia in T20 cricket, surpassing England’s 100-run win in 2005. For Australia, it was only the second time they had suffered a defeat by more than 100 runs in the format.
Chasing a target of 207 set by the hosts, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by fifties from Saim Ayub and Babar Azam, while Shadab Khan produced a destructive late-order assault.
Saim scored 56 from 37 balls with two sixes and six fours, Babar remained unbeaten on 50 off 36 deliveries, and Shadab smashed 46 from 19 balls, including five sixes. Their efforts helped Pakistan cross 200 for the first time in a T20 match against Australia, exceeding their previous best of 198 in the series opener.
Mohammad Nawaz then turned in a match-winning spell with the ball, claiming five wickets for just 18 runs in four overs to dismantle the Australian batting line-up. This marked Nawaz’s second five-wicket haul in T20 internationals, earning him the player of the match award. No Australian batsman managed to reach fifty, with the side bowled out for just 96 runs.
The Australian innings began poorly, with Fakhar Zaman dismissing Matthew Kuhnemann in the first over. Salmaan Ali could not hold his wicket, leaving Australia 34 for 2, while brief resistance from Cooper Connolly offered little relief. Nawaz’s spin attack triggered a collapse of the top order, ending Australia’s challenge decisively.
Babar Azam’s unbeaten fifty also allowed him to surpass Virat Kohli’s record of 38 international T20 fifties, taking his tally to 39. Saem and Babar stabilised the innings after early setbacks, while Shadab’s aggressive hitting ensured Pakistan set a formidable total.
