Pakistan fought back after losing the One-Day International series against England 4-1 by thrashing the hosts by nine wickets in the only Twenty20 International between the two sides at Old Trafford in Manchester on Wednesday.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, England and were off to a positive start as both the openers, Jason Roy and Alex Hales, struck a 56-run opening stand. However, once the two made the long walk back to the pavilion owing to some terrific bowling by Imad Wasim, it was all downhill from there for England.
Wahab Riaz took three wickets to keep England in check as their innings was wrapped up for 135 in the allotted 20 overs. Hasan Ali grabbed a brace as well in what could be seen as a complete bowling effort.
Pakistani openers Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif (59 not out) were off to a flier with the duo staging a 107-run stand to take the game away from England within the first 12 overs. Khan eventually fell for 59, but the damage had been done and Pakistan cruised to a nine-wicket win over the English. Riaz was the man of the match for his haul of 3/18 in four overs.
Brief scores:
England 135 in 20 overs (Alex Hales 35; Wahab Riaz 3/18) lost to Pakistan 139/1 in 14.5 overs (Sharjeel Khan 59, Khalid Latif 59*; Adil Rashid 1/29) by nine wickets.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!