Player of the series reflects on match-winning knock against Sri Lanka and partnership with Hasan Nawaz
Pakistan all-rounder Arafat Minhas has credited his positive mindset, consistent work ethic and ability to adapt to match situations for his impressive performances in the recently concluded ODI tri-series, which Pakistan won after beating Sri Lanka by three wickets in a thrilling final at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. The 21-year-old left-handed batter and left-arm spinner was named player of the series after scoring 149 runs in five matches, including two half-centuries, and taking nine wickets. In the final, Arafat scored a crucial 61 off just 31 balls and shared a match-winning 94-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Hasan Nawaz, who remained unbeaten on 37, to help Pakistan successfully chase down a target of 326. Speaking to former Pakistan captain Salman Butt on Straight Drive with Salman Butt, Arafat said his primary focus during the chase was to build a partnership and take the game deep after Pakistan had lost two wickets in quick succession. “When I went in to bat, we needed another partnership as wickets had fallen in quick succession. Hasan and I knew each other's strengths and our ability to hit boundaries. We wanted to build a partnership and take the game deep because we knew their frontline bowlers had almost completed their spells. “We were clear about our intent and knew that whoever got the opportunity to hit a boundary would take it. Hasan was finding it difficult to get going initially, but I felt the ball was coming nicely on to my bat, so I decided to take my chances. Once we started finding boundaries, the pressure eased and Hasan supported me well.” Arafat, who made his ODI debut against Australia in Rawalpindi earlier this year, also explained how a change of ball in the closing stages of the innings helped Pakistan regain momentum during the chase. “The ball had become heavy because of the dew and was staying low, which made hitting difficult. When the ball was changed around the 44th or 45th over, it started coming on to the bat much better. I told Hasan that we should look to attack deliveries in our hitting areas. “We needed a big over as the required run rate was around nine or 10. We managed to get that big over, which shifted the momentum in our favour and helped us complete the chase.” Reflecting on the atmosphere at a packed Gaddafi Stadium, Arafat said playing in front of a passionate home crowd provided additional motivation, although remaining composed under pressure was equally important. “I personally enjoy playing in front of big crowds. When you hit a boundary and the entire stadium erupts, it gives you goosebumps and a lot of motivation. But the real challenge in those situations is to control your nerves, remain calm and make the right decisions.” The youngster, who has represented Pakistan in eight ODIs and seven T20Is, said winning the player of the series award had boosted his confidence but would not change his approach to the game. “Winning the player of the series award definitely gives you confidence and improves your mindset. However, I believe your work ethic, hard work and routine should remain the same. I try to maintain the same mindset whether I perform well or not and continue to back myself. “When you receive such recognition, expectations naturally increase. I take those expectations positively because they motivate me to improve further and give my best for Pakistan in every match.” Discussing the challenge of switching between formats, Arafat said mental preparation and maintaining a disciplined routine were essential to adapting quickly. “Switching formats is largely about your mindset. If you are mentally strong, you can adapt to different challenges. Your routine and hard work remain the same, but you have to prepare yourself mentally for the demands of each format and practise accordingly.” Following the tri-series, Pakistan are set to face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27. The first Test will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from November 9-13, while the second will take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from November 17-21. Arafat and his younger brother, Sameer Minhas, have both been named in Pakistan's squad for the Test series.
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