By Sports Reporter
LAHORE— Shadab Khan struck a brilliant century to lead Pakistan to a dramatic one-wicket victory over England in the fourth match of the tri-nation One-Day International series on Sunday.
Chasing a target of 242, Pakistan reached 242 for nine in the 48th over, completing a remarkable comeback after England’s bowlers reduced the hosts to a difficult position.
Pakistan won the toss and elected to field, with the team wearing pink kits to raise awareness about breast cancer.
England were bowled out for 241 in the 47th over after an aggressive start from Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Shaheen Shah Afridi made an immediate impact, dismissing Tom Banton for four in the first over before removing Joe Root for five in the third. Harry Brook was subsequently run out in the fifth over, leaving England under early pressure.
Haris Rauf claimed the fourth wicket as England slumped to 52 for four.
Despite the early collapse, opener Ben Duckett anchored the innings with a fighting 105, helping England recover from the loss of their top-order batters. Sam Curran contributed 42, while Gus Atkinson added 36 to strengthen the visitors’ total.
Shaheen led Pakistan’s bowling attack with four wickets, also completing 150 wickets in ODI cricket. Razaullah and Arafat Minhas claimed two wickets apiece, while Rauf took one.
In reply, Pakistan faced a challenging chase but remained in contention through Shadab’s outstanding innings. The all-rounder held the innings together under pressure, guiding the hosts towards the target despite the loss of wickets at regular intervals.
Shadab’s century proved decisive in a closely fought contest, allowing Pakistan to reach the winning total with one wicket remaining.
The victory provided Pakistan with an important boost in the ongoing tri-nation series, while England were left to rue their inability to defend a competitive total after their early success with the ball.
Pakistan’s performance highlighted the value of Shadab’s composure under pressure and Shaheen’s effectiveness with the new ball, as the hosts secured a memorable win in front of their home supporters.
Summary
Shadab Khan’s century and Shaheen Afridi’s four-wicket haul helped Pakistan defeat England by one wicket while chasing 242 in the fourth ODI of the tri-nation series.
