RAWALPINDI: Pakistan celebrated its 1,000th One-Day International in style by defeating Australia by five wickets in the opening match of the three-ODI series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday, thanks to a match-winning all-round performance from debutant Arafat Minhas.
The landmark fixture became even more memorable as Pakistan comfortably chased down a target of 201, reaching 202-5 in 42.3 overs with 45 balls remaining. The victory gave the hosts a 1-0 lead in the series and marked a successful start to their campaign against one of cricket’s strongest sides.
Australia, after being sent in to bat by Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, struggled to build momentum despite useful contributions from Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw. Short scored 55 from 76 balls, while Renshaw top-scored with 61 off 63 deliveries.
The turning point came when debutant Arafat Minhas produced a sensational spell of spin bowling. The young all-rounder removed key Australian batters, including Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green, helping reduce the visitors to 68-4. Australia were eventually bowled out for 200 in 44.1 overs.
Minhas completed a dream ODI debut with outstanding figures of 5-32 in his 10 overs. Spinner Abrar Ahmed claimed two wickets, while Shaheen Afridi, Salman Ali Agha and Haris Rauf picked up one wicket each.
In reply, Pakistan received a steady start from Sahibzada Farhan, who made 28 runs before departing. Although Maaz Sadaqat was dismissed for eight, former captain Babar Azam ensured there were no major setbacks.
Babar played a composed innings of 69 from 94 deliveries, anchoring the chase and building a vital partnership with Muhammad Ghazi Ghori. Ghori also impressed with a patient 65 off 92 balls, keeping Pakistan firmly on course for victory.
Pakistan briefly lost momentum after Babar’s dismissal as Salman Ali Agha and Abdul Samad fell cheaply. However, Minhas returned to make an impact with the bat, remaining unbeaten on 18 from 17 deliveries and guiding the team across the finish line alongside Ghori.
The victory carried additional significance as Pakistan became only the third men’s team in ODI cricket history, after Australia and India, to play 1,000 One-Day Internationals. The milestone was celebrated with a convincing win that highlighted both experienced performers and emerging talent.
Arafat Minhas was named Player of the Match for his remarkable five-wicket haul and valuable unbeaten contribution during the chase, capping a debut that will be remembered as one of the finest starts to an ODI career.
About The Author
