Pakistan recover from 154 for nine to chase down England’s target, with Shadab Khan producing a career-defining century to secure a place in the ODI tri-series final.
LAHORE, October 25, 2026: Pakistan defeated England by one wicket in a thrilling fourth match of the ODI Tri-Series at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, completing a remarkable comeback led by an unbeaten century from Shadab Khan.
Chasing England’s total, Pakistan were on the verge of defeat at 154 for nine before Shadab produced a match-winning innings of 113 not out off 96 balls. His knock included 13 fours and five sixes, helping Pakistan cross the finish line in a tense encounter.
Haris Rauf played a crucial supporting role, scoring seven runs during a vital 89-run partnership with Shadab. Rauf concentrated on surviving the pressure and rotating the strike before hitting the winning runs to seal Pakistan’s victory.
Shadab was named Player of the Match for his outstanding batting performance. He also contributed with the ball, taking none for 31 in seven overs.
Earlier, England struggled against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack after losing four wickets for just 52 runs. Ben Duckett held the innings together with a century, while Sam Curran and Will Jacks provided useful contributions.
Jamie Overton and other lower-order batters helped England recover from their early setbacks, with Atkinson adding a quick 36 to lift the total. However, Pakistan maintained pressure through regular breakthroughs.
Shaheen Afridi led Pakistan’s attack with four wickets, while Arafat Minhas and ODI debutant Razaullah claimed two wickets each.
England appeared to have the match under control during Pakistan’s chase. Their bowlers exploited the conditions effectively, with Overton taking three wickets despite struggling with a right knee problem. Dawson also struck twice, leaving Pakistan in serious trouble.
However, Shadab’s composure and aggressive stroke play transformed the contest, while Rauf’s resistance ensured Pakistan remained in contention until the final moments.
The victory secured Pakistan’s place in the tri-series final after three consecutive wins. England’s hopes of reaching the title clash have suffered a major setback, leaving them dependent on other results and a victory in their remaining match against Sri Lanka.
Pakistan will face Sri Lanka on Tuesday, October 27, with the first ball scheduled for 8am GMT.
The one-wicket victory underlined the unpredictable nature of ODI cricket, as Pakistan turned an almost certain defeat into a memorable triumph.