PAK vs AUS 2nd T20 Playing 11: Team News, Pitch Report, and Lahore Match Preview
The eyes of the cricket world turn back to the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore today, January 31, 2026. After a stunning victory in the opening match, the Men in Green are on the verge of something they haven’t achieved in nearly a decade: a T20I series win over the mighty Australians. With a 1-0 lead, the pressure is squarely on the visitors to adapt to the “grippy” Pakistani conditions or face a series defeat before the final game tomorrow. Lets have a look at the Pak vs Aus 2nd T20 Playing 11, and look at the chances for Pakistan to seal the series.
Pakistan vs Australia – 2nd T20I
Australia tour of Pakistan 2026 • Lahore
The Context: Ending a 7-Year Jinx
Before Thursday’s clash, Australia had held a psychological edge over Pakistan in T20Is for 2,650 days. Pakistan’s 22-run victory didn’t just happen by luck; it was a tactical masterclass led by the new captain, Salman Ali Agha. The aggressive intent shown by the top order and the precision of the spin attack proved that Pakistan is finally finding its rhythm ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Today’s match is about proving that the first win wasn’t a fluke.
Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report & Lahore Weather
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch report for today suggests a “fluent” track for the first 10 overs, but one that will slow down significantly as the match progresses.
- The Turn Factor: In the 1st T20I, we saw the ball “holding” in the surface. Spinners like Abrar Ahmed and Adam Zampa found plenty of assistance.
- Toss Prediction: In Lahore, the team batting first has a 62% win rate in 2026. Given the slowing nature of the track, expect the captain to bat first and set a target above 170.
- Lahore Weather Today: The skies are clear with temperatures around 16°C–18°C. While dew is a possibility in the second innings, it hasn’t been heavy enough recently to completely neutralize the spinners.
Tactical Analysis: Babar Azam vs. Adam Zampa
One of the most anticipated battles in the PAK vs AUS 2nd T20I Playing 11 discussion is the rivalry between Babar Azam and Adam Zampa. Zampa has dismissed Babar four times in T20Is, and his 4/24 in the last game showed he is still Australia’s primary weapon. Babar Azam’s “T20 form” has been under scrutiny, and his ability to milk Zampa for runs in the middle overs will be the deciding factor for Pakistan’s total.
Confirmed Team News & Playing 11
Australia is expected to make at least two changes. Mitchell Marsh returns to lead the side after resting in the opener, likely replacing Mitchell Owen. Josh Inglis is also expected to return to the middle order to provide more stability against the spin threat.
Predicted PAK vs AUS 2nd T20I Playing 11:
Pakistan
Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha (C), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (WK), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.
Australia
Mitchell Marsh (C), Travis Head, Matthew Short, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (WK), Marcus Stoinis, Matt Renshaw, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Ben Dwarshuis, Mahli Beardman.
Key Players to Watch
Saim Ayub (PAK)
Currently in the form of his life. After his 40-run blitz and 2 wickets in the first game, he is the undisputed “X-factor” for Pakistan.
Cameron Green (AUS)
Green was the highest scorer for Australia (36) in the last game and looked the most comfortable against spin. He will be the anchor Australia needs today.
Naseem Shah (PAK)
Expected to return to the side today, Naseem’s pace and ability to bowl at the death will be vital if Australia manages to take the game deep.
Conclusion & Prediction
With the home crowd behind them and a pitch that suits their four-pronged spin attack, Pakistan enters this game as slight favorites. If they can negotiate Adam Zampa’s four overs without losing more than two wickets, they should be able to post a winning total.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who is the Player of the Match from the 1st T20I? Saim Ayub won the award for his all-round performance of 40 runs and 2 wickets.
- What is the head-to-head record? Currently, both teams are tied at 14 wins each in T20Is.
- Where to Watch the Match? Match will be streamed live on Sports TV Youtube channel.
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