Zampa Denies ‘B Team’ Claims as Australia Beats Pakistan by 13 Runs
In Short
- Australia won the second T20I against Pakistan by 13 runs, taking a 2-0 series lead.
- Adam Zampa dismissed claims of Australia fielding a ‘B team,’ emphasizing the squad’s depth and talent.
- Spencer Johnson’s 5/26 and Zampa’s 2/19 were key in defending a modest total of 147/9.
- Pakistan’s chase fell short, despite Usman Khan’s 52 and Irfan Khan’s 37, as they were bowled out for 134.
Australia claimed a 13-run victory over Pakistan in the second T20I, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Despite a modest total of 147/9, Australia’s bowlers, led by Spencer Johnson’s 5/26, held firm to defend the score. Johnson’s performance was key to their success, and Adam Zampa, in his 200th international match, also contributed with 2/19.
Zampa responded to claims about Australia fielding a ‘B team’ by firmly denying it, emphasizing the depth of their squad. He noted that many of the players have been successful in the Big Bash League and are capable of performing at the highest level. Zampa expressed confidence in the team’s abilities, particularly highlighting the impressive performances of players like Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Johnson.
Australia’s innings was built on quick starts from openers Matthew Short (32 off 17) and Jake Fraser-McGurk (20 off 9). However, regular wickets meant their progress slowed, and contributions from Glenn Maxwell (21 off 20) and Aaron Hardie (28 off 23) helped them reach a competitive score. Despite Haris Rauf’s 4/22 for Pakistan, Australia managed to set a challenging total.
Pakistan’s chase stumbled as they lost wickets at critical moments. Usman Khan (52 off 38) and Irfan Khan (37 off 28) fought hard, but Pakistan fell short, finishing at 134 all out with just two balls to spare. Australia’s bowlers maintained tight pressure, with Spencer Johnson’s five-wicket haul proving decisive in the final result.
In the post-match presentation, Zampa praised the Sydney Cricket Ground’s atmosphere and the team’s performance. He highlighted the importance of using the new ball and expressed optimism about the growth of young players like Spencer Johnson. Zampa’s comments underscored Australia’s strength, regardless of missing a few key players from their squad.
