Naseem Shah has been ruled out of today’s game as the eyes of the cricketing world turn to Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, as Pakistan hosts Australia for the high-stakes 2nd T20I of the Australia tour of Pakistan 2026.
The match is scheduled to take place today, Saturday, January 31, 2026, with the first ball being bowled at 4:00 PM LOCAL (4:00 PM PKT). After Australia secured a lead in the opening fixture, the Men in Green are fighting to keep the series alive on home soil in this crucial afternoon encounter.
Team News and Squad Adjustments
Both camps are dealing with substantial fitness concerns ahead of this clash. Pakistan’s fast bowler Naseem Shah has been ruled out of today’s game due to a minor calf strain sustained during training.
In a tactical move to strengthen the batting, the team management is expected to promote Saim Ayub to the opening slot, a shift that allows Babar Azam to stabilize the middle order. Meanwhile, the visitors will be without Josh Hazlewood, who is managing a slight workload issue, leading to the inclusion of the express-pace sensation Spencer Johnson.
Pak vs Aus Match Odds and Betting Favorites
According to the latest markets from major sportsbooks, Australia enters the second T20I as the clear favorites with odds of 1.65, reflecting their dominant form in the opening game. Pakistan, despite playing at home, is currently listed at 2.25 to secure a victory.
In the “Top Batsman” market, Babar Azam leads the charts for the hosts at 3.20, while Travis Head remains the primary choice for Australia at 3.50.
Given the high-scoring history of the Gaddafi Stadium, oddsmakers have also set the “Total Match Sixes” line at over 12.5, anticipating a flurry of boundaries in the afternoon heat.
Pak vs Aus 2nd t20 Broadcast and Live Streaming Guide
Global fans have several options to catch every ball of the 2nd T20I through official broadcasting partners.
In Pakistan, the match will be telecast live on PTV Sports and A Sports HD, while digital viewers can stream the action via the Tamasha app, Tapmad, or MYCO.
Australian supporters can tune in to Fox Cricket or stream via Kayo Sports.
T20I showdown continues! 🔥 Dekho Shaheens ka taakra Kangaroos se in the 2nd round of the T20I Series 🏏, LIVE Tamasha par. Download the app: https://t.co/VcNGRiitwg 🤳🏻#AbDekhTamasha #PAKvsAUS pic.twitter.com/KPQVIhjyed
— Tamasha (@tamasha_digital) January 31, 2026
For the wider international audience, the series is available on the FanCode app in India, Willow TV in North America, and Sky Sports Cricket in the United Kingdom.
Pitch Report and Afternoon Conditions
The Lahore surface is traditionally a batter’s dream, known for its flat nature and true bounce. However, the 4:00 PM start introduces a unique dynamic where the first innings will be played under the afternoon sun, while the second innings will benefit from a cooling atmosphere. Experts suggest that a total exceeding 190 will be necessary to stay competitive on this high-scoring ground.
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