Abrar Ahmed’s Spin Magic Powers Pakistan to Historic T20I Series Win Over Australia
Pakistan’s long-standing concerns in batting and fast bowling have been offset by a remarkably consistent spin attack, which has emerged as the backbone of the team’s success in recent times. Much of the credit for Pakistan’s record 21 T20I victories in 2025 goes to their spinners, led by the ever-reliable Abrar Ahmed.Since the end of the 2024 T20 World Cup in Barbados, Pakistan’s spin unit has operated at an elite level, claiming 146 wickets — the second-highest tally by any T20I side in this period — at an impressive economy rate of 6.92. Abrar Ahmed has been the standout performer, taking 40 wickets, the most by a Pakistani spinner in the window.Known for his mystery spin and subtle variations, Abrar has become Pakistan’s go-to bowler in pressure situations across formats. From his dream Test debut in Multan against England, where he claimed 11 wickets, to his match-saving spell in the Asia Cup final, Abrar has consistently delivered on the big stage.
His mastery was once again on display in the T20I series against Australia. In the first match at Gaddafi Stadium, Abrar returned the most economical complete spell of the venue in T20 cricket, finishing with 2 for 10, including a stunning dismissal of Cooper Connolly. He revealed later that his success was built on careful observation of Australia’s spinner Adam Zampa while Pakistan were batting.The second T20I proved decisive. After Pakistan posted a rare but commanding 199-run total, Australia’s openers launched a fierce counterattack. Captain Salman Ali Agha responded swiftly by introducing Abrar in the third over — a move that immediately paid dividends.
Abrar removed Mitch Marsh and Josh Inglis with two classic leg-spin dismissals, completely shifting the momentum.Australia collapsed under relentless spin pressure, as Pakistan’s spinners shared all ten wickets, wrapping up the match in just 15.4 overs. Abrar finished as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 14, sealing Pakistan’s biggest-ever T20I victory over Australia in terms of runs and securing the series.Speaking after the win, Abrar highlighted the importance of adaptability and variation in modern cricket, crediting team management for backing him in all phases of the game. He emphasized that taking calculated risks, especially when defending a strong total, is key to success.The series win marks a significant milestone for Pakistan, who had not beaten Australia in a T20I since 2018. As the team builds toward the 2026 T20 World Cup, these victories — achieved in conditions similar to those expected at the tournament — provide a timely boost in confidence and momentum.
