Pakistan beats Australia in thrilling Twenty20 International in Karachi

Babar Azam shines as Pakistan defeats Australia

Pakistan has defeated Australia in a thrilling Twenty20 International in Karachi, with Babar Azam leading the way for the home side.

The left-handed opener struck a superb 66 off 46 balls, including six fours and two sixes, to help Pakistan reach a total of 166-6 from their 20 overs.

Australia, in reply, could only manage 150-9, with Shadab Khan taking 3-24 and Haris Rauf claiming 2-33.

Babar Azam's sensational knock

Azam's knock was the cornerstone of Pakistan's innings, with the opener playing a range of elegant shots all-round the wicket.

He was particularly severe on Australia's spinners, using his feet to good effect and finding the boundary with ease.

Azam's innings was all the more impressive given that he was playing on a pitch that was offering assistance to the bowlers.

Australia's batters struggle

Australia's batters, in contrast, struggled to get going on a slow and low wicket.

Only Matthew Wade (45) and Mitchell Marsh (35) offered any real resistance, with the rest of the batting lineup failing to make a significant contribution.

Pakistan's bowlers were disciplined and accurate, with Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf particularly impressive.

Pakistan's victory a boost ahead of World Cup

Pakistan's victory is a timely boost for the team ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which gets underway in Australia next month.

The win will give Pakistan confidence that they can compete with the best teams in the world, and it will also help them to fine-tune their preparations for the tournament.

Australia, meanwhile, will be disappointed with their performance, but they will have a chance to bounce back in the second T20I on Friday.