Australia's players walk off the field after securing a victory in the first T20 International against Pakistan. — AFP

Australia's secondary pace attack delivered an outstanding performance to defeat Pakistan by a comprehensive 29-run margin in the weather-shortened first T20 International on Thursday. The match, delayed by rain and storms, was eventually reduced to a seven-over contest. Glenn Maxwell's explosive 43 off 19 balls helped Australia post a total of 93-4. Australia had the game firmly in their grasp when they reduced Pakistan to 16-5 within 15 deliveries, with Pakistan's top order appearing bewildered in their attempt to chase a short target.

Australia, batting first, accumulated 33 runs in the initial two overs, but Haris Rauf managed to slow the pace, conceding just three runs in his opening over while also dismissing Matthew Short. Maxwell targeted Rauf in the subsequent over, smashing two sixes and a four. Abbas Afridi provided some relief for Pakistan by dismissing Maxwell and Tim David in his first over, but Marcus Stoinis' late cameo saw him score 21 not out off seven balls.

Pakistan's reply began with Sahibzada Farhan hitting the first two balls from Spencer Johnson, but their chase quickly faltered. Johnson dismissed Farhan, and Xavier Bartlett (3-13) took control, removing Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan, who was out for a two-ball duck, and Usman Khan in his opening over. Nathan Ellis (3-9) also made an immediate impact with a two-wicket over, dismissing Babar Azam and Irfan Khan, leaving Pakistan struggling. Abbas Afridi scored 20 not out off 10 balls, and Pakistan eventually managed 64-9, with Adam Zampa claiming two wickets in two balls.

Australia rested several key players, including T20 captain Mitchell Marsh and their primary pace attack, with Josh Inglis taking charge. "All the bowlers performed exceptionally well tonight," Inglis remarked. "It's beneficial having Xavier and Spencer with extensive T20 experience at the Gabba. Securing early wickets in short chases is vital." Pakistan had previously won the preceding ODI series 2-1. The second T20 is scheduled to take place in Sydney on Saturday.

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