Spencer Johnson’s remarkable maiden five-wicket haul led Australia to a 13-run victory over Pakistan in the second T20 in Sydney, giving the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the best-of-three series. Johnson’s fiery spell of 5-26 played a key role in dismissing Pakistan for 134 while chasing a target of 148. The 28-year-old paceman made an immediate impact, reducing Pakistan to 44-4 with three quick wickets. Despite a resilient 52 from Usman Khan, who briefly revived Pakistan’s chase, Johnson returned to remove Khan and then accounted for Abbas Afridi to complete his five-wicket haul.
Though Irfan Khan (37*) kept Pakistan’s hopes alive, Australia’s bowlers held firm, and the visitors were ultimately bowled out for 134 when Haris Rauf was run out. Reflecting on his outstanding performance, Johnson said, “It’s an opportunity I don’t take lightly—I’m privileged to be wearing the green and gold. You never know when your last game might be, so every match is a bonus. Hopefully, I can play a few more.” With the series now beyond Pakistan’s reach, the teams will meet for the third and final T20 in Hobart on 18 November.