In a commanding performance, Australia demolished Pakistan by seven wickets in Hobart to complete a resounding 3-0 clean sweep in their T20 international series. The victory, however, was somewhat overshadowed by an injury scare to star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who limped off the field with a suspected hamstring strain.
Australia Skittles Pakistan for Meager Total
After losing the toss and being sent in to field, the Australian bowlers wasted no time asserting their dominance. A devastating spell from Aaron Hardie, who claimed career-best white ball figures of 3/21, combined with Adam Zampa’s economical 2/11, ripped through the Pakistani batting order.
The tourists, resting captain and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan and quick Naseem Shah, got off to a promising start, reaching 61/1 in the seventh over. However, a catastrophic collapse saw them losing 9/56 to be bundled out for a paltry 117 in 19.2 overs. Babar Azam top-scored with 41 from 28 balls but fell trying to attack Zampa.
Stoinis Muscles Australia Home
Chasing a modest target, Australia lost openers Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk cheaply to be 31/2. But Marcus Stoinis quickly took control, smashing an unbeaten 61 from just 27 balls with 5 fours and 5 towering sixes. One massive hit even reached the roof of the members stand at Ninja Stadium.
“It was nice to open up the shoulders and get going. With these games, you go out there and swing hard from the first ball,” said Player of the Match Stoinis.
Captain Josh Inglis contributed a steady 27 as Australia reached the target with 52 balls to spare, sealing their first T20 series sweep over Pakistan.
Maxwell Injury Mars Victory
The only sour note for the home side was the injury to Glenn Maxwell, who pulled up sore while fielding. The extent of the damage is still unclear, but the star all-rounder is expected to miss at least a month, putting his participation in the start of the Big Bash League season in doubt.
“Hopefully it’s on the minor end, the physio said it could be a low-grade strain but we’ll wait and see. It’s a shame because he’s been in great form,” lamented Australian coach Andrew McDonald.
Ticketing Troubles Delay Start
Monday’s match was also marred by lengthy queues outside the stadium, with many fans still waiting to enter well after the first ball had been bowled. The delays were blamed on issues with the Ticketek website.
Despite the off-field issues and Maxwell’s injury, it was a clinical series for Australia as they build towards hosting the T20 World Cup in 2026. The teams will now regroup ahead of the first Test in December, with Australia seeking to extend their dominance to the longer format.
