Pakistan secured an 87-run victory over England in the opening match of the one-day international tri-series held at Rawalpindi Stadium on Tuesday. The win was largely driven by all-rounder Arafat Minhas, who delivered a standout performance with both bat and ball, marking a significant milestone in his international career.
Minhas scored an unbeaten 59 runs off 58 balls, contributing to Pakistan’s total of 302 for nine in their 50 overs. His innings was bolstered by a crucial 79 from fellow newcomer Hasan Nawaz, who demonstrated power hitting with four sixes and five boundaries. The pair helped Pakistan recover from a precarious position of 133 for five, adding vital partnerships that pushed the total beyond 300. Faheem Ashraf provided additional support with a quick 39 runs, including a six and five boundaries, contributing to 91 runs in the last 10 overs.
Minhas then turned to bowling, producing career-best figures of 6 for 40 with his left-arm spin. England started their chase strongly, reaching 120 for one with a solid opening stand between Tom Banton, who scored 57, and Ben Duckett, who made 45. However, after losing Duckett, England struggled to maintain momentum as Minhas took three crucial wickets, bowling England captain Harry Brook for five and dismissing others key batsmen including Jordan Cox and Jamie Overton. In total, England were bowled out for 215 in 38.4 overs, losing their last nine wickets for 95 runs. Minhas also contributed in the field by running out the last batter, Gus Atkinson, to seal the win.
Other Pakistani bowlers played a supportive role, with Naseem Shah taking the important wicket of Joe Root for 33 and Haris Rauf dismissing Sam Curran for 27, helping to restrict England’s chase.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi praised the performances of Minhas and the other middle and lower order batsmen, emphasizing the need for top-order players to improve as the team builds toward the upcoming World Cup. He highlighted Minhas as a talented all-rounder who could play a vital role in future matches.
England, meanwhile, faced criticism for dropped catches and lapses in concentration during their innings. Their struggles against spin bowling were noted, with England batsmen failing to apply sufficient pressure on Pakistan’s spinners. England now prepare to face Sri Lanka in their next tri-series match, also scheduled at Rawalpindi.
The tri-series features Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka, with Tuesday’s win marking Pakistan’s second consecutive victory, putting them close to securing a spot in the final. England and Sri Lanka are both yet to register a win in the competition.