Lahore: Shadab Khan's maiden One Day International (ODI) century defined Pakistan's dramatic one wicket victory over England at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, as the all rounder guided his side into the ODI tri series final with a record breaking last wicket partnership.
Chasing 242, Pakistan looked set for defeat before Shadab and Haris Rauf combined for an unbeaten 89 run tenth wicket stand. Pakistan reached the target with three balls remaining; Shadab finished unbeaten on 113 off 96 balls, scoring his first ODI hundred and leading Pakistan to their second consecutive one wicket win in the tournament.
The partnership also broke a 51 year old Pakistan record for the highest tenth wicket stand in a successful ODI chase, adding a statistical milestone to Shadab's match winning performance.
The result confirmed Pakistan's qualification for the tri series final, while England were left to reflect on a match in which they reduced the hosts to nine wickets but could not take the final wicket.
Shadab's innings was also notable for the circumstances surrounding his century. He reached his hundred during a tenth wicket partnership, with Pakistan still needing runs to complete the chase.
Reactions to Shadab's historic innings
Shadab's century prompted congratulatory messages from government officials, cricket authorities, former players and franchises. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Shadab and Rauf's contributions, while the Pakistan Cricket Board highlighted the team's comeback.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Federal Minister of Interior Mohsin Naqvi also congratulated the team. Former opener Ahmad Shahzad praised Shadab's composure under pressure but cautioned that Pakistan's batting performance remained a concern despite the victory.
The ICC highlighted two records: Shadab's 113 was the highest individual score by a batter at No. 8 or lower in men's ODI cricket. At the same time, the 89 run stand broke the previous record of 64 for the final wicket in a successful ODI chase, set by the West Indies against Pakistan in 1975.
Wisden Cricket, Multan Sultans, Quetta Gladiators and Desert Vipers were among the cricket organisations that recognised the performance.
Meanwhile, England captain Harry Brook defended his bowlers' efforts and acknowledged that England could have scored more runs. Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi praised the last wicket partnership and the team's overall effort.
The result left Pakistan unbeaten after three matches and secured their place in the October 31 final.
