In what is being hailed as one of the most remarkable turnarounds in limited-overs history, the Pakistan cricket team snatched an improbable one-wicket victory against England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The hosts were seemingly down and out at 154-9 while chasing a target of 241, prompting disheartened home fans to begin heading for the exits.
Defying all expectations, all-rounder Shadab Khan and fast bowler Haris Rauf combined for a record-breaking last-wicket partnership. Shadab played the innings of a lifetime, smashing an unbeaten 113 runs from 96 deliveries, while Rauf anchored the other end with 7 not out from 19 balls to complete a sensational run-chase masterclass. *
The dramatic collapse of England's bowling attack followed a disciplined spell by the European side, which had earlier dismantled Pakistan's top order through disciplined spells from Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson. Despite Ben Duckett’s solid century for the visitors, the late-game surge completely flipped the momentum of the tri-nation series.
The stunning result has drawn widespread acclaim from international cricketers and analysts alike, who praised the psychological resilience and aggressive shift in intent displayed by the Pakistani lineup during the dying moments of the high-stakes encounter.
Source: www.aljazeera.com