With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 just days away, Pakistan and Australia begin a crucial three-match T20I series in Lahore. This series is important for both sides as they fine-tune combinations, test new players, and build momentum ahead of the mega event.
Pakistan are dealing with off-field uncertainty, but on the field, they have named a strong squad featuring all their senior players. Australia, despite missing a few injured names, arrive with a power-packed lineup backed by strong performances in the Big Bash League.
The 1st T20I will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Thursday afternoon, and fans can expect a high-scoring contest.
PAK vs AUS Match Details
| Match Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Pakistan vs Australia T20I Series 2026 |
| Match | Pakistan vs Australia, 1st T20I |
| Date | Thursday, 29 January 2026 |
| Time | 04:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
Match Preview
Pakistan
Pakistan will be relieved to see Babar Azam back in the T20I setup. Although his recent form has been inconsistent, home conditions could help him regain confidence. Pakistan also boast a strong spin department with Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, and Abrar Ahmed.
The bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah will be crucial, especially in the powerplay.
Key Players:
Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi
Australia
Australia arrive with an aggressive batting unit capable of exploiting flat Lahore wickets. Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, and Cameron Green provide depth and power throughout the lineup.
Their pace attack looks more balanced, and Adam Zampa’s experience will be vital in the middle overs.
Key Players:
Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
| Team | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Australia | 14 |
| Pakistan | 13 |
| No Result | 1 |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | L, W, W, NR, L |
| Australia | NR, W, L, L, NR |
Weather & Pitch Report – Lahore
Weather Update
- Temperature: 15–17°C
- Humidity: 50–55%
- Rain: No rain expected
Pitch Report
- Batting-friendly surface
- True bounce for stroke play
- Spinners get some grip later
- First innings score around 165+ is competitive
Ground Stats – Gaddafi Stadium (T20Is)
| Record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 34 |
| Bat First Wins | 20 |
| Bat Second Wins | 14 |
| Tie / No Result | 0 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 164 |
| Highest Score | 209/3 |
| Lowest Score | 94 |
Predicted Playing XI
Pakistan
- Sahibzada Farhan (wk)
- Saim Ayub
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Salman Agha (c)
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Faheem Ashraf
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
Australia
- Mitchell Marsh (c)
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Cameron Green
- Marcus Stoinis
- Mitchell Owen
- Cooper Connolly
- Sean Abbott
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Xavier Bartlett
- Adam Zampa
Dream11 Fantasy Tips
Small League (Safe Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Marcus Stoinis
- Shadab Khan
- Cameron Green
- Mohammad Nawaz
Grand League (Risky Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Mitchell Marsh
- Travis Head
- Saim Ayub
- Sahibzada Farhan
Match Prediction – Who Will Win?
Pakistan will enjoy home support and familiar conditions, but the flat Lahore pitch suits Australia’s explosive batting lineup perfectly. Australia also appear stronger in pace bowling and power-hitting depth.
Pakistan’s spinners could play a role, but Australia’s ability to clear the ropes consistently gives them an edge.
Predicted Winner: Australia
Injury Update
| Team | Status |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | No injury updates |
| Australia | No injury updates |
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