Pakistan will face Australia in the third and final T20I at Lahore with the series already decided after dominant wins in the first two matches. With momentum firmly on their side, the hosts will push for a clean sweep while Australia look to salvage pride and fine-tune combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Pakistan vs Australia, 3rd T20I
Australia tour of Pakistan 2026
Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Start Time: 4:30 PM IST, 4:00 PM PST, 10:30 AM GMT
Teams: Pakistan vs Australia
Team Overview
Pakistan enter the final T20I full of confidence after registering convincing victories by 22 runs and 90 runs in the opening two games. Their batting unit has shown depth and intent, while the bowling attack has executed plans with discipline on a spin-friendly surface. Captain Salman Agha has led from the front, making smart tactical calls and contributing crucial runs in the middle order. Pakistan’s approach has been clear, apply pressure early with the bat and control the middle overs with quality spin.
Australia, on the other hand, have treated the series as preparation for the upcoming World Cup, rotating players and testing combinations. While they have struggled to adapt to conditions, the visitors still possess match-winners across departments. Mitchell Marsh has shouldered leadership responsibilities, but the team will want stronger contributions from the top order and better control in the middle overs to avoid another defeat.
Key Players to Watch
For Pakistan, Salman Agha remains the standout performer with the bat. His ability to rotate strike against spin and accelerate when required has anchored Pakistan’s innings in both matches. In the bowling department, Abrar Ahmed has been highly effective, using variations and sharp turn to trouble Australian batters consistently.
Australia will rely heavily on Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh to provide stability at the top and middle of the order. Adam Zampa remains their biggest wicket-taking threat, especially on a surface that suits leg-spin, while Cameron Green’s all-round ability adds balance to the side.
Head to Head Record
Pakistan and Australia have faced each other 30 times in T20Is so far. Pakistan have won 15 matches, while Australia have claimed 14 victories, with one game ending without a result. Pakistan also won the first-ever T20I between the sides in September 2007 and arrive into this contest after winning the most recent fixture on January 31, 2026.
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch has clearly favoured spinners during the first two games of the series. The surface offers grip and turn, making stroke play challenging once the ball gets older. Batters who show patience and use the depth of the crease have found success, while bowlers who vary pace and flight have controlled scoring rates effectively. Another slow and turning wicket is expected for the final match.
Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan Probable XI
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha captain, Babar Azam, Usman Khan wicketkeeper, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed
Australia Probable XI
Matthew Short, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh captain, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis wicketkeeper, Matt Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, Matthew Kuhnemann, Adam Zampa
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
In India, the third T20I will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network, with live streaming available on the SonyLIV app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the match on Sony Sports channels, while digital streaming will also be available via SonyLIV where accessible. In the United Kingdom, the match will be available on Sony Sports platforms and partner broadcasters covering international cricket. Australian viewers can follow the match through Sony’s international broadcast feed and affiliated sports networks. Global audiences can access live streaming through SonyLIV and official Sony Sports digital platforms, depending on regional availability.
Match Prediction
Pakistan start as favourites given their strong form, familiarity with conditions, and superior execution with spin on turning pitches. Australia have the talent to challenge them, but a lot depends on their top order handling Pakistan’s spinners in the middle overs. If Pakistan bat first and post a competitive total, their bowling attack has the resources to defend it. Australia’s best chance lies in early wickets and a disciplined bowling performance. Overall, Pakistan hold a clear edge, but Australia remain capable of producing a competitive contest if they adapt quickly.
