In a spectacular display of batting resilience, Pakistan clinched a memorable victory against England in the fourth one-day international of their ongoing tri-series in Lahore on Sunday. With the team precariously placed at 154 for 9 while chasing a target of 242, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf executed an unprecedented 89-run partnership for the last wicket to steer the hosts to success.
The match appeared to be firmly in England's control when number 11 batsman Haris Rauf joined Shadab Khan at the crease. With 88 runs still required to win, the outcome seemed all but decided. However, Shadab, who had arrived at the crease at the number eight position, anchored the innings and dictated terms. He maintained the strike for the majority of the time while rotating the batting, effectively keeping the scoreboard ticking as England bowlers struggled to break the defensive resolve of the pair.
Shadab Khan reached his maiden ODI century during the innings, finishing with a match-winning 113 off 96 balls. At the other end, Rauf remained unbeaten on seven, playing a supporting role by defending deliveries and managing the pressure. Rauf eventually struck the winning runs, prompting celebrations as Pakistan successfully chased down the target and secured a spot in the tri-series final.
The unbeaten 89-run stand between the two tailenders sets a new record for the highest tenth-wicket partnership in a successful one-day international chase. The previous record stood at 64, held by Deryck Murray and Andy Roberts, achieved during the 1975 World Cup against Pakistan. The victory was particularly significant given Pakistan's earlier struggles, having lost their top three batters—Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Babar Azam—within the powerplay.
Earlier in the match, England had been restricted to a total of 241 runs after their innings came to an end in 46.4 overs. The visitors faced an early collapse, slipping to 19 for 3 on a pitch that was otherwise considered batting-friendly. Ben Duckett led the recovery with a fighting century, scoring 105 off 111 balls, while Sam Curran contributed 42 during a 93-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Gus Atkinson remained not out on 36.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi spearheaded the bowling attack, claiming 4 for 46 to dismantle the English batting lineup. He was supported by ODI debutant Razaullah, who returned figures of 2 for 38. Despite their efforts to restrict the visitors, the game turned dramatically in the closing stages as England failed to secure the final wicket required to seal the match.
The result marks a crucial turning point for Pakistan in the tri-series, which also features Sri Lanka. England, having lost their first two fixtures, entered the match with hopes of staying in contention, but were ultimately unable to prevent the late-game surge by the Pakistani lower-order batsmen. The win confirms Pakistan's place in the final of the competition.
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