Pakistan continued their impressive start to the tri-series with a commanding victory in 2nd ODI over England. Arafat Minhas delivered a remarkable all-round performance to lead the hosts to success. As a result, Pakistan secured their second consecutive win after defeating Sri Lanka in their opening match.
Arafat Minhas stole the spotlight with an outstanding display in both innings. He showed composure with the bat when Pakistan needed stability. Later, he dismantled England’s batting line-up with the ball.
Minhas claimed six wickets and also contributed to a run-out. His performance made him only the third Pakistani player to score a half-century and take five or more wickets in the same ODI.
Meanwhile, Hasan Nawaz provided valuable support with the bat. Faheem Ashraf also made an important late contribution, helping Pakistan reach 302 after a challenging middle phase.
With the ball, Haris Rauf struck at crucial moments. Naseem Shah then returned with greater intensity in his second spell, adding further pressure on England.
England had Pakistan struggling at 81/4 in the 2nd ODI of tri-series. However, the visitors failed to maintain their advantage and allowed the middle order to recover.
Pakistan’s batters rebuilt the innings and added crucial runs. Consequently, England conceded a total that proved difficult to chase.
Their problems continued during the reply. Ben Duckett and Tom Banton gave England a strong start with a 91-run partnership. Both batters played positively and put the visitors in a promising position.
However, Duckett departed before reaching fifty, while Banton fell after completing his half-century. Those wickets changed the momentum.
Joe Root and Sam Curran tried to steady the chase, but neither could build a substantial innings. England then lost wickets in quick succession, leaving Will Jacks and the lower order with an uphill task.
Pakistan capitalised on the collapse and wrapped up a convincing victory.
Pakistan did not have everything their way at the start. Nevertheless, the hosts responded well whenever England gained control.
Their middle order lifted the total after early setbacks. Then, the bowlers took charge and kept England from building lasting partnerships.
Minhas led the attack with his six-wicket haul. Rauf and Naseem also played key roles, ensuring England could not recover after their promising opening stand.
Pakistan have now defeated both Sri Lanka and England to win their first two matches of the tri-series. Their latest result highlights the team’s ability to recover from difficult situations and deliver under pressure.
In contrast, England will need to address problems with both bat and ball after this defeat in 2nd ODI of tri-series from Pakistan. They missed opportunities to restrict Pakistan and failed to sustain their early momentum during the chase.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to carry this confidence into their next fixture as they aim to maintain their place at the top of the standings.
