The Pakistan cricket team secured an 87-run victory over England in the second match of the triangular series, driven by an exceptional all-round performance from Arafat Minhas. Stepping up in a difficult situation, Minhas delivered with both bat and ball to steer his team to triumph. Through this remarkable feat, the youngster matched a milestone not seen in Pakistan cricket for 13 years, earning a place in the exclusive club previously led by former captain Shahid Afridi.
Background of the 21-Year-Old Multan Native
Arafat Minhas is a 21-year-old cricketer hailing from Multan in Pakistan's Punjab province. He made his ODI debut against Australia in May of this year, making an immediate impact by claiming 5 wickets for just 32 runs in his 10 overs. That debut spell made him the first Pakistan bowler to take a five-wicket haul in his maiden ODI appearance. The left-arm spin bowler has continued to prove his worth by contributing significantly with the bat as well.
Joining the Ranks of Shahid Afridi
During the clash against England, Minhas put on a masterclass that placed him alongside Shahid Afridi. By scoring a half-century and taking five or more wickets in the same ODI match, Minhas achieved a milestone that no Pakistani player had reached in 13 years. The last player to accomplish this feat was Shahid Afridi back in 2013. Across his career, Afridi managed the combination of a fifty and five-plus wickets in a single match a record three times.
Historical Context of the Rare Milestone
The elite list of Pakistani players who have scored a fifty and taken 5 wickets in a single ODI features legendary names. Abdul Rज्जाक achieved the feat against India in Hobart in 2000. Shahid Afridi accomplished it against England in Lahore in 2000, against Sri Lanka in Sharjah in 2011, and against West Indies in Providence in 2013. Arafat Minhas has now cemented his name on this prestigious list with his performance against England in Rawalpindi in 2026.
Rescuing Pakistan From a Collapse
Analyzing his match statistics, Minhas first rescued the Pakistan innings when the team was struggling at 133 for 5. He played a crucial knock of 59 runs to push the team total to 302. Following his batting heroics, he turned to his bowling strengths, conceding 40 runs while snapping up 6 wickets. His devastating spell ensured that the entire England batting lineup was bundled out for 215 runs.
