Pakistan secured a convincing five-wicket victory over Australia in the first One-Day International (ODI) at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The match belonged to two young Pakistani stars, spinner Arafat Minhas and wicketkeeper-batter Ghazi Ghori, who delivered standout performances to guide the hosts to victory. Arafat made history by becoming the first Pakistan cricketer to claim a five-wicket haul on ODI debut, while Ghazi scored his maiden ODI half-century during the successful run chase.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia struggled against Pakistan’s spin attack and were bowled out for 200 in 44.1 overs. Opener Matthew Short top-scored with 55 runs, while Matt Renshaw contributed 61. However, the visitors failed to build substantial partnerships as Pakistan’s bowlers kept them under pressure throughout the innings.
Arafat Minhas emerged as the star with the ball, finishing with outstanding figures of 5-32 in 10 overs. The 21-year-old spinner dismissed Australian captain Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Matthew Short and Nathan Ellis to record a memorable debut performance. Spinner Abrar Ahmed also played a key role, taking two wickets for 44 runs.
Chasing a target of 201 on a spin-friendly surface, Pakistan lost early wickets but recovered through a crucial partnership between former captain Babar Azam and Ghazi Ghori. The pair added 127 runs for the third wicket to put Pakistan firmly in control of the chase.
Babar anchored the innings with a composed 69 off 94 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Ghazi matched his senior partner’s efforts with an impressive 65 from 92 deliveries, striking eight fours in his maiden ODI fifty.
Although Australia briefly fought back through Nathan Ellis, who claimed two wickets, Pakistan comfortably reached 202-5 in 42.3 overs. Arafat Minhas remained unbeaten on 18, helping his side cross the finish line with 45 balls to spare.
For his historic five-wicket haul and match-winning contribution, Arafat Minhas was named Player of the Match. Pakistan will now look to extend their lead when the two teams meet in the second ODI of the series.
