Pakistan’s Over-60s Team suffered a 135-run defeat to Australia in their last group match of the IMC Over-60s World Cup 2026, played on Thursday at Iceland Cricket Ground, Mississauga. Despite the result, Pakistan have confirmed their place in the Semi-Finals based on a superior net run rate, having finished level on 8 points with South Africa after six group matches. With the knockout spot effectively assured beforehand, Pakistan’s team management used the fixture against Australia to rest four of their frontline players, which will be back in action against New Zealand in the Semi-Final.
Pakistan skipper Fawad Ijaz Khan after winning the toss opted to field first. Australia posted a sizeable total of 226-6 from their 45 overs. Mark Kratzmann was the top-scorer for Aussies with an unbeaten 64 off 64 balls, striking four fours and a six, Graeme Pavey, also contributed a patient 53 off 91 deliveries. Glen Pearce also chipped in with a quick knock of 33 runs. Babar Altaf Butt was the most successful bowler for Pakistan, picking up 3-32 from his nine overs, while Syed Zafar Ali, Muhammad Younus and Aamir Hameed took one wicket apiece.
In reply, Pakistan’s depleted batting order struggled to cope with disciplined Australian bowling and were dismissed for 91 in 41.2 overs. Sajid Ali was the lone bright spot, top-scoring with 40 off 53 balls including six boundaries, but found little support as wickets fell at regular intervals around him. John Mensforth grabbed three wickets while giving away 29 runs from his six overs, while Stephen Butler, Lachlan Donovan and Bob Egerton each claimed two wickets to secure a comprehensive victory for Australia, which remained unbeaten throughout the group stage. Graeme Pavey was declared Player of the Match.
Pakistan Over-60s Team will lock horns with New Zealand in the Semi-Final, whereas Australia will take on England in the other Semi-Final of the Mega Event.
In other matches played on Thursday, from Pool A, Wales overcame IMC Emerging XI by 77 runs. In Pool B, New Zealand defeated Scotland by 66 runs and USA won their contest against Zimbabwe by six wickets.
