RAWALPINDI: Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi Expresses Dissatisfaction with Top-Order performance despite his team securing an emphatic 87-run victory over England in the tri-nation ODI series, stressing that the top-order must improve ahead of the team’s upcoming World Cup preparations.
Speaking after the match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Shaheen acknowledged the team’s overall performance but pointed out that the top-order had failed to deliver as expected. He praised the lower-middle order for rescuing Pakistan from an early batting collapse, highlighting the contributions of Hassan Nawaz, Arafat Minhas and Faheem Ashraf.
The Pakistan captain also expressed confidence in the team’s fast-bowling attack and described all-rounder Arafat Minhas as a valuable prospect for the future of Pakistan cricket.
Shaheen Afridi Expresses Dissatisfaction with Top-Order After Early Batting Collapse
England won the toss and elected to field first, putting Pakistan under immediate pressure. The hosts lost three wickets for just 59 runs during the powerplay, with Fakhar Zaman dismissed on the first delivery, followed by Saim Ayub for eight and Babar Azam for 34.
Pakistan’s troubles continued when Salman Ali Agha departed for 16, leaving the team struggling at 81 for four in the 16th over.
However, Saad Baig and Hassan Nawaz steadied the innings with a crucial 51-run partnership. Baig contributed 35 runs off 54 balls, providing valuable support as Pakistan attempted to rebuild after the early setbacks.
Hassan Nawaz then produced an impressive knock of 79 off 74 deliveries, including five boundaries and four sixes. His partnership with Arafat Minhas added 78 runs for the sixth wicket, helping Pakistan recover and cross the 200-run mark.
Contributions from the lower order enabled Pakistan to post a competitive total of 302 for nine in their allotted 50 overs.
Arafat Minhas Leads Pakistan’s Bowling Attack
England’s chase faltered under Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack, with Arafat Minhas playing a key role in dismantling the visitors’ batting lineup.
Also Read: Pakistan Secures Dominant 87-Run Victory Over England in Tri-Nation Series
England were eventually bowled out for 215 in the 39th over, giving Pakistan a convincing 87-run victory and their second consecutive win in the series.
Despite the comprehensive result, Shaheen’s remarks underlined the importance of greater consistency from the top-order as Pakistan continue preparations for future international challenges.
