Umar Akmal was Pakistan's star with the bat as the 2009 champions overcame their defeat at the hands of India in the opening game of the T20 WC with a hard-fought 16-run wicket over a strong Australian side. Umar came in to bat with his side in a spot of bother after they lost 2 early wickets, but a fine stand between him and his elder brother Kamran Akmal helped restore parity and laid the platform for a big total. He finished with a superb 94 before falling in the final over.

Speaking at the post-match ceremony, Akmal thanked the team management for allowing to play freely and believed this allowed him play the way he did today. 

"I would like to thank my team management as they told me to go out and play freely. I have always played well against Australia. I tried to play my natural game today. I play according to the team situation but in this T20 format I have been given the license to play freely," he said.

Pakistan skipper Mohd Hafeez showered praise on the batter saying they have always belived in his talent. Hafeez also lauded the team for holding their nerve when it mattered. 

"We always wanted Umar to express himself. We have always believed and backed him. He is a great talent. 

"The boys held the nerve very well. Maxwell was batting brilliantly, but the bowlers did a great job. Ajmal, Afridi and Babar were all good. We have many match-winners. Umar Gul was unbelievable too. We just wanted to go there and express ourselves," he summed up.