PAK vs AUS: Opening batter criticizes Pakistan's batting after defeat to Australia in first T20I

Pakistan's opening batter, Ahmed Shehzad, has voiced his disappointment following Pakistan's lackluster performance in the opening T20I against Australia on Thursday in Brisbane. After a rain-shortened match, Pakistan fell to a 29-run defeat in a game reduced to seven overs per side due to persistent showers.

Taking to social media platform 'X,' Shehzad shared his thoughts, saying, "Such a shameful display from Pakistan batsmen. Looks like Pakistan's on a runaway train."

He emphasized the need for more dependable performances from the senior players in the batting order.

"It was a truly disappointing performance by this Pakistan batting lineup. Youngsters like Sahibzada, Haseebullah, and Abbas showed intent, but it’s a team game, and Pakistan’s bowling won’t save them every day. The seniors need to step up their game. Shot selections were poor, and we’re missing power compared to other teams," he added.

Australia made the most of their reduced innings, piling up 93/4 thanks to an aggressive start by openers Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short. Fraser-McGurk managed 16 runs off the first over before falling to Naseem Shah, but Glenn Maxwell took charge, hammering 43 off 19 balls with five boundaries and three sixes. Marcus Stoinis rounded off the innings with a brisk 21 off seven balls, bringing Australia to a challenging total of 93/4.

In reply, Pakistan stumbled from the outset. A quick 12-run start in the opening over was quickly overshadowed by Xavier Bartlett’s exceptional 3/13, as he dismissed key players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan cheaply. With Nathan Ellis contributing 3/9, Pakistan’s batting lineup was left reeling at 20/5 within three overs.

Only Mohammad Abbas Afridi, who remained unbeaten on 20, provided some resistance, but it was too little too late as Pakistan finished at 64/9. The second T20I is set to be played in Sydney on November 16.