Shadab Khan produced one of the most remarkable rescue acts in international cricket history, smashing an unbeaten 113 to guide Pakistan to a thrilling one-wicket victory over England on Sunday. The sensational triumph booked Pakistan’s place in the tri-series final, leaving England to rue another dramatic collapse.
Pakistan’s run chase appeared completely dead at 154-9 in the 34th order before an incredible, nerve-wracking 89-run partnership for the final wicket completely turned the fixture on its head. Shadab took total control of the strike, skillfully shielding No. 11 batter Haris Rauf while dismantling the English bowling attack with twelve boundaries and a massive six. Earlier in the innings, England were bowled out for 241 in 46.4 overs after Ben Duckett anchored their total with a brilliant century, his fifth in the ODI format.
Record-Breaking Partnership and Dramatic Finish
Playing his first game of the tournament, Shadab made history by breaking the all-time world record for the highest individual score in an ODI innings while batting at No. 8 or lower, surpassing Ireland player Simi Singh’s previous benchmark of 100 not out against South Africa. Haris Rauf provided invaluable support from the other end, contributing a stubborn 7 not out from 19 balls and striking the winning boundary to complete the chase in 47.1 overs.
- Shadab Khan scored 113 not out off 96 balls to claim the world record for the highest ODI score at No. 8 or lower.
- Pakistan recovered from a precarious 154-9 to reach 243-9 thanks to a record 89-run last-wicket stand.
- Ben Duckett top-scored for England with 105 runs off 111 balls, marking his first ODI century against Pakistan.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi led the Pakistan bowling attack with figures of 4-46 as England lost their final wickets quickly.
Tournament Context and Upcoming Fixtures
The stunning victory marks Pakistan’s third consecutive win in the ongoing tri-series, cementing their dominance ahead of the tournament’s concluding stages. Pakistan will now square off against Sri Lanka in their final league fixture on Tuesday, looking to maintain their momentum. Meanwhile, England suffers their third straight defeat of the competition following earlier losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka, placing immense pressure on the team management to rectify their middle-order collapses and erratic finishing before upcoming international engagements.
Keep browsing Sporting Avenue to get more interesting news from the world of sports. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to get the notifications instantly.
