Australia vs Pakistan Prediction: Who Will Win AUS vs PAK 1st T20 Match on 29th January 2026?
The Australia vs Pakistan prediction for the 1st T20I of the 2026 series sets the stage for a high-intensity clash between two heavyweight cricketing nations. This contest will be played on Thursday, 29 January 2026, at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and serves as a crucial build-up fixture ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Cricketwebs provide 100% match prediction tips for every cricket match, and this encounter is expected to draw massive attention due to the contrasting recent fortunes of the two sides.
Australia arrive in Pakistan with supreme confidence, having dominated the head-to-head battle in recent years by winning each of their last five T20I meetings against Pakistan. Their aggressive batting approach, combined with a flexible bowling unit, has made them one of the most feared T20 teams in the world. Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely heavily on home conditions and crowd support to end this losing streak and regain momentum at the international level.
The Gaddafi Stadium traditionally offers a good batting surface with even bounce, but spinners and smart pacers tend to come into play as the match progresses. A first-innings score of around 180 is considered competitive here, especially under lights. Key players such as Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head are expected to set the tone for Australia, while Pakistan’s hopes will hinge on the performances of Sahibzada Farhan, Shadab Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz. With both teams experimenting ahead of the World Cup, this opening match promises entertainment, tactical battles, and momentum-shifting moments.
- Australia have won their last five T20Is against Pakistan
- Pakistan will bank on home conditions at Lahore
- A score of around 180 is competitive at Gaddafi Stadium
- Australia start as favourites based on recent form
Match Details
| Match | AUS vs PAK, 1st T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 29 January 2026 |
| Time | 6:30 PM |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Series | Australia Tour of Pakistan 2026 |
Team Preview
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan enter this series under pressure, having struggled for consistency in T20Is over the past year. Their recent losses against Australia have highlighted issues in both batting intent and bowling discipline. However, playing at home offers them a golden opportunity to reset and challenge a strong Australian lineup.
The top order is expected to feature Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, and Babar Azam. While Babar provides stability, Pakistan have often lacked explosive powerplay starts. Sahibzada Farhan appears the most capable of addressing that issue, with his ability to score quickly. Fakhar Zaman and Salman Agha will be responsible for building momentum in the middle overs, while Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz add late-order hitting depth.
Bowling remains Pakistan’s traditional strength. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah will spearhead the pace attack, aiming to exploit early movement. However, inconsistency at the death has hurt them in recent matches. Spin options Abrar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, and Nawaz will play a key role in controlling Australia’s aggressive batters during the middle phase.
Australia Preview
Australia arrive in Lahore as one of the most in-form T20 sides globally. Their recent performances reflect a fearless brand of cricket built around power-hitting and flexible bowling combinations. This series also allows them to fine-tune combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head form one of the most destructive opening pairs in T20 cricket. Their ability to dominate the powerplay often puts Australia in command early. Josh Philippe provides additional firepower, while Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green strengthen the middle order with both batting and bowling options.
The bowling attack looks well-rounded. Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis are expected to take the new ball after impressive Big Bash League campaigns. Adam Zampa remains the primary spin weapon, capable of breaking partnerships in the middle overs. Australia’s depth and adaptability make them a dangerous side in any conditions.
Team Squads
Pakistan Squad:
Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha, Khawaja Nafay, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Wasim Jnr
Australia Squad:
Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Josh Philippe, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green, Mitchell Owen, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Adam Zampa
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (C), Khawaja Nafay (WK), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
Australia: Mitchell Marsh (C), Travis Head, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (WK), Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Adam Zampa
Australia vs Pakistan Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Travis Head, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman |
| All-rounders | Mitchell Marsh, Shadab Khan, Cameron Green |
| Bowlers | Adam Zampa, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah |
| Wicketkeeper | Josh Philippe |
| Flex Pick | Mohammad Nawaz |
This fantasy XI balances explosive batting with reliable all-rounders and strike bowlers. Travis Head and Babar Azam are automatic picks due to their consistency and ability to anchor innings. Fakhar Zaman adds aggressive intent, especially in home conditions. Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green offer dual value with bat and ball, increasing fantasy points potential. Shadab Khan remains Pakistan’s most influential all-rounder in T20Is.
Josh Philippe is selected as wicketkeeper due to his attacking role at the top. Adam Zampa provides wicket-taking ability in the middle overs, while Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah handle powerplay and death overs. Mohammad Nawaz adds flexibility as a spin all-rounder.
Captain Choices: Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head
Vice-Captain Choices: Shadab Khan, Babar Azam
Players to Avoid: Khawaja Nafay, Cooper Connolly
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Australia
Australia are favourites due to their recent dominance over Pakistan and their well-balanced T20 setup. Their batting lineup is packed with power hitters capable of exploiting flat surfaces like Lahore. Unlike Pakistan, Australia have shown consistency across departments, with multiple players contributing in each match. Their bowling attack, led by Zampa and supported by disciplined pacers, has been effective in restricting opposition totals. Given Pakistan’s recent struggles against high-quality attacks, Australia hold a clear edge.
Australia T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 219 | 123 | 89 | 7 |
Australia boast a strong T20 record with a high win percentage and multiple ICC titles.
Pakistan T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 289 | 167 | 115 | 7 |
Pakistan remain one of the most experienced and competitive T20 nations globally.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | AUS Won | PAK Won | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 14 | 13 | 1 |
At Gaddafi Stadium: Australia won the only T20I played here.
The rivalry is close historically, but Australia have dominated recent encounters.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore traditionally favors batters, offering true bounce and a flat surface that makes stroke play easier. Fast bowlers can exploit early movement with the new ball, especially under lights, but as the game progresses, the surface tends to slow, bringing spinners into play. Middle overs often see slower deliveries and variations becoming effective. Teams winning the toss may opt to chase under dew conditions, which usually appear later in the evening. A first-innings score of 170–180 is considered competitive, while anything above 190 would put significant pressure on the chasing side.
Weather Report
Clear skies are forecast in Lahore on match day, with temperatures around 20–24°C. Humidity will be moderate, and there is no significant chance of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the 20 overs per side.
Broadcast Details
The Australia vs Pakistan 1st T20I will be streamed live on YouTube, offering global accessibility. Fans can also follow ball-by-ball coverage and highlights across official cricket platforms and social media channels.
Toss Prediction
Pitch conditions and dew likelihood make chasing attractive, especially under lights. Teams may prefer to bowl first and chase a target. Toss Winner Prediction: Australia — expected to choose bowling first to capitalize on dew and late-game conditions.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman:
For Australia, Travis Head is primed for a big score—his ability to dominate powerplays and clear boundaries makes him a key fantasy and match pick. Babar Azam will be Pakistan’s main batting anchor; his class and timing are crucial for setting or chasing a total. Fakhar Zaman adds aggression at the top, making him another likely contributor.
Probable Bowler:
Adam Zampa stands out for Australia. His middle-overs spin control and knack for picking crucial wickets can throttle Pakistan’s batting progression. Shaheen Afridi is Pakistan’s best strike bowler; his ability to deliver early breakthroughs will be vital. Naseem Shah could also impact with fast, skiddy deliveries. Shadab Khan’s variations and all-round potential add pressure in both batting and bowling roles.
Match Prediction
Considering current form, recent head-to-head dominance, and the depth of their squad, Australia start as clear favourites in this Australia vs Pakistan prediction. Pakistan’s home advantage and conditions may keep the encounter competitive, but Australia’s firepower and balance make them more likely to prevail. Our Winner: Australia Will Win.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – AUS vs PAK 1st T20
When is the Australia vs Pakistan 1st T20I 2026?
The match is scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2026.
Where will the 1st T20I take place?
It will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
What time does the match start?
The match begins at 6:30 PM local time.
Who are the favourites to win this match?
Australia are favourites based on recent performance and squad strength.
What is a competitive T20 score at Gaddafi Stadium?
A total of around 170–180 runs is considered competitive.
Where can I watch the match live?
Live streaming will be available on YouTube.
Who are key players to watch in this match?
Travis Head, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Adam Zampa are pivotal.
What type of pitch can teams expect?
A batting-friendly pitch with true bounce and spin influence later.
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