NEW DELHI: Following Australia's victory over Pakistan in the second T20I in Sydney on Saturday, star leg-spinner Adam Zampa delivered a bold statement in response to claims about the team's strength.
Playing his 200th international match, Zampa denied any notion that Australia's squad was a 'B' team, firmly stating, "No way this is our B team." His comments reflected the depth and capability of the squad, despite missing a few key players.
Australia secured a 13-run victory to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Pakistan. Despite setting a modest target of 148, Australia's bowlers, led by Spencer Johnson, held their nerve. Johnson was the standout performer, finishing with remarkable figures of 5/26, leading the charge in defending the total.
Zampa, who returned figures of 2/19, also played a crucial role in the win with his spin bowling, helping Australia to maintain control during Pakistan's chase.
"A great night at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The atmosphere is one of the best in the country. A lot of our games here feel like away games. You can make use of the new ball here. Xavier brought us back in the middle. Spencer will only get better. Very impressive. I am known for my funky hairstyles. These players have been scoring runs in the BBL (Big Bash League) and taking wickets. No way this is our B team," said Zampa at the post-match presentation.
Australia, opting to bat first, posted a total of 147/9 in their 20 overs. Openers Matthew Short (32 off 17) and Jake Fraser-McGurk (20 off 9) set the tone with a fast start, but regular wickets stalled Australia's progress.
Contributions from Glenn Maxwell (21 off 20) and Aaron Hardie (28 off 23) helped them to a competitive score. Haris Rauf was Pakistan's standout bowler, finishing with impressive figures of 4/22.
In reply, Pakistan's chase faltered as they lost wickets at crucial moments. Usman Khan (52 off 38) and Irfan Khan (37 off 28) fought hard, but Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 134 with two balls to spare, falling 13 runs short.
