Arafat Minhas Stars on Dream Debut as Pakistan Defeat Australia in Historic 1,000th ODI: Pakistan marked a significant milestone in style as they secured a comfortable five-wicket victory over Australia in their 1,000th One-Day International, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
The night belonged to 21-year-old all-rounder Arafat Minhas, who produced a remarkable performance on his ODI debut. The left-arm spinner dismantled Australia’s batting line-up with an outstanding five-wicket haul before finishing the chase in emphatic fashion by striking the winning six.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan’s attack maintained pressure throughout the innings and restricted Australia to 200 runs in 44.1 overs. Matt Renshaw led the resistance with a composed 61, while Matthew Short added 55 at the top of the order.
Arafat proved to be the game-changer during the middle overs. His crucial breakthroughs halted Australia’s progress as he removed key batters Josh Inglis and Marnus Labuschagne before dismissing Cameron Green to leave the visitors struggling. He later returned to claim two more wickets and finished with exceptional figures of 5 for 32, becoming the first Pakistan men’s cricketer to claim a five-wicket haul on ODI debut.
Pakistan’s bowlers received valuable support from Abrar Ahmed, who picked up two wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf and Salman Ali Agha contributed with one wicket each.
Chasing a target of 201, Pakistan faced an early challenge after slipping to 49 for 2. However, Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batter Ghazi Ghori combined to steady the innings with a match-defining partnership.
Babar continued his consistent form with a fluent 69, striking four boundaries and a six during his 94-ball stay at the crease. Alongside him, Ghazi showcased maturity beyond his experience, compiling a maiden ODI half-century. His impressive knock of 65 included eight boundaries and provided the stability Pakistan required in the chase.
Although both batters departed before the finish line, Pakistan remained firmly in control. With the target within reach, Arafat once again stepped into the spotlight. The young all-rounder remained unbeaten on 18 and fittingly sealed the victory with a towering six, completing a memorable debut performance and ensuring Pakistan crossed the line with 45 balls to spare.
The victory gives Pakistan a valuable advantage heading into the second ODI, which will be played at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on 2 June. With confidence high and a new star emerging on the international stage, Pakistan will be eager to build on their strong start to the series.
