Shadab Khan's maiden ODI century steers Pakistan into tri-series final after thrilling chase against England

Fortune favours the brave, and on Sunday it favoured Shadab Khan just when he seemed to have been abandoned by it. He had dragged Pakistan from the brink of defeat to within touching distance of victory in the One-day International tri-series match against England. And it had taken extraordinary bravery to do so. With the last wicket standing and Haris Rauf holding firm at the other end, Pakistan needed 27 runs when Shadab swept Gus Atkinson for six over fine leg. Before the sparse crowd at the Gaddafi Stadium could finish celebrating, Atkinson fired a full delivery into Shadab’s pads. England appealed in unison and the umpire raised his finger. Shadab, already regretting the momentary lapse, tapped his bat against his helmet in frustration before reviewing the decision, more out of obligation than hope. Then came the twist.

The big screen showed a spike on UltraEdge as the ball passed the bat. The decision was overturned, disbelief gave way to delight and Shadab returned to the crease with a smile. He responded by squeezing Atkinson for four between short third and backward point to bring up his maiden ODI century off 91 balls, then whipped another full delivery through square leg for four. After two dot balls, he pumped Atkinson over long-off for six, leaving Pakistan one hit away from victory. Haris, who had faced 18 balls for his three runs, settled the contest in the next over, drilling debutant Henry Crocombe straight down the ground for four. Pakistan reached 243-9 in 47. 1 overs to complete a remarkable one-wicket victory, seal their place in the Oct 31 final and condemn England to another agonising defeat. Shadab remained unbeaten on 113 off 96 balls, with 13 fours and five sixes, while his unbroken 89-run stand with Haris set a record for the highest…