CRICKET TWENTY20 INTERNATIONAL:JONNY BAIRSTOW'S maiden international half-century carried England to a series-levelling 38-run win in Saturday's second Twenty20 match that sets up a decider in Abu Dhabi today.
The Yorkshire player, who made 60 not out, got his eye in during the unbeaten 22 he made in vain in Thursday’s defeat in Dubai, and showed the benefit of that experience with an innings of rich potential as England posted 150 for seven. Pakistan appeared second-favourites already, all the more so after then lurching to two for two inside two overs.
None of the top six managed to muster a 20, and even some trademark Shahid Afridi hitting could not seriously threaten England’s total as Steven Finn finished with three for 30.
Bairstow’s clean striking and an expert shot selection belying his 22 years were both key attributes, as they were when he impressed so many on his England debut in last September’s one-day international win over India in Cardiff.
Bairstow also took two well-judged outfield catches – and among seven more there were crackers from Kevin Pietersen, Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler and Jade Dernbach. “In the field we were faultless, I think we put one half-chance down,” said England captain Stuart Broad.
