Australia Wins by 13 Runs, Seals 2-0 Series Victory Over Pakistan

Australia defeated Pakistan by 13 runs in the second T20I at the Sydney Cricket Ground, clinching the three-match series 2-0. Spencer Johnson was the hero for the hosts, claiming 5 wickets for 26 runs, playing a crucial role in Pakistan's batting collapse.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Australia got off to a strong start with Matthew Short and Jack Macgirk at the crease. The partnership put on 51 runs before the first wicket fell. Macgirk was dismissed for 20 off 9 balls, marking the beginning of a dramatic collapse.

From 51-1, Australia quickly lost 5 wickets for just 95 runs. Matthew Short was the top scorer with 32 runs from 17 balls. Pakistan's bowlers, led by Haris Rauf and Abbas Afridi, kept the pressure on, taking wickets regularly and slowing down the scoring rate. Glenn Maxwell (21), Tim David (18), and Aaron Hardy (28) couldn't offer much resistance, and Australia finished their innings at 147/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf took 4 wickets, while Abbas Afridi claimed 3 wickets.

In response, Pakistan's chase got off to a disastrous start, as Spencer Johnson struck early with two quick wickets. Pakistan was reeling at 44/4. However, Usman Khan and Irfan Khan fought back with a 58-run partnership off 35 balls.

But when Usman was dismissed for 52 off 38 balls, Pakistan's resistance crumbled. Despite Irfan Khan's fight, wickets kept falling at the other end. The Australian bowlers maintained their pressure, and with the dismissal of Haris Rauf (run out), Pakistan were all out for just 134, 13 runs short of their target, with two balls remaining.

Spencer Johnson was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 6-wicket performance. Adam Zampa also contributed with 2 wickets, sealing a comprehensive win for Australia.

With this victory, Australia secured the series 2-0 and will look forward to the final T20I in the series.