Pakistan scripted history after they pulled off a record 326-run chase in the tri-series final against Sri Lanka. Fakhar Zaman was the cornerstone of the brilliant
win and scored 127 in 99 balls to take the team over the line. The southpaw was well supported by Saad Baig, who scored 74, and later 61 by Arahat Minhas, who added a 96-run partnership with Hasan Nawaz, kept Pakistan ahead in the game. The record win meant that the Men in Green matched India's special feat. India held the record of highest chase during an ODI tournament final when they chased 326 in the famous win at Lord's in 2022. Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif helped India pull off one of the greatest chases in history. Now, after 24 years, Pakistan also share the record with the Men in Blue.
Highest Chases In ODI Tournament Finals
- India against England – 326 (2002, Lord's)
- Pakistan against Sri Lanka – 326 (2026, Lahore)
- India against Pakistan – 315 (1998, Dhaka)
- West Indies against Pakistan – 285 (1993, Sharjah)
- New Zealand against India – 277 (2005, Harare)
A New Era In Pakistan Cricket?
Pakistan cricket has been on a consistent decline over the last few years, but the series win comes as a shot in the arm. It has also given Pakistan a glimpse of how bright their future can be if they pick sides purely on talent. Pakistan have often been criticised for favouritism and not playing the best players, but they seem to have changed their approach and are now giving more opportunities to the youngsters, who have already proved their mettle in Under-19 cricket and domestic cricket.The likes of Saad Baig, Maaz Sadaqat, Arafat Minhas, and Hasan Nawaz have brought fresh energy to the side. This freshness and fearless attitude, when clubbed with the experience of big guns like Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, make Pakistan look a high-quality side. It is still early days, but the start has been promising, and Pakistan might be well on the way to becoming the force they once were, and it will be great for the sport overall.
