Pakistan have moved into fourth place in the ICC Men’s One Day International (ODI) team rankings after defeating England by 87 runs in Rawalpindi on October 20, with young all-rounder Arafat Minhas producing a performance that helped strengthen the team’s position in international cricket.
Pakistan now have a rating of 103 points, placing them ahead of Australia on 102. South Africa remain third with 104 points, while New Zealand occupy second place on 109 and India lead the standings with 115, according to rankings information reported on October 21.
The result followed Pakistan’s earlier victory over Sri Lanka in the ongoing ODI tri-series. Two wins from their opening two matches have given the hosts momentum as they continue their campaign.
Arafat Minhas makes his mark against England
Minhas delivered the decisive contribution with both bat and ball at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The left-arm spinner scored 59 runs from 58 deliveries before taking six wickets for 40 runs, his career-best ODI bowling figures.
Pakistan had work to do after losing four wickets for 81 runs. Hasan Nawaz helped rebuild the innings with 79 from 74 balls, while Minhas provided further stability and attacking intent.
Faheem Ashraf added a quick 39, helping Pakistan finish on 302 for nine in their allotted 50 overs. Saad Baig also contributed 35 runs to the total.
The recovery gave Pakistan a defendable score after an unsettled start. Rather than allowing England to control the match, the home side built enough runs to put pressure on the visitors during the chase.
England initially appeared capable of mounting a serious challenge. Tom Banton scored 57 and Ben Duckett made 45, but the innings lost momentum as Pakistan’s bowlers began taking wickets.
England were eventually dismissed for 215 in 38.4 overs, leaving Pakistan with an 87-run victory.
Minhas’ six-wicket haul was central to the collapse. His contribution in the field also included a run-out of Gus Atkinson, completing an outstanding all-round performance in the match.
What Pakistan’s latest ODI ranking means
Pakistan’s move above Australia places them fourth in the current standings, but the gap between the teams near the top remains narrow.
South Africa have 104 rating points, only one ahead of Pakistan. India and New Zealand retain a clearer advantage over the chasing teams, with ratings of 115 and 109 respectively.
The rankings reflect results across the relevant ODI period rather than the outcome of a single match alone. Pakistan’s recent wins have improved their position, but maintaining that progress will depend on results in subsequent international fixtures.
For Pakistan, the latest update offers encouragement as the team looks to establish greater consistency in the 50-over format. The performances of younger players such as Minhas could also give the side additional options as it develops its squad.
Australia’s position below Pakistan adds another dimension to the rankings race. However, Pakistan’s fourth place does not mean the standings are settled: future results can change the ratings and positions of teams competing in international ODIs.
Pakistan look to continue their winning run
The Rawalpindi tri-series gives Pakistan further opportunities to build on their start. Their next fixtures will be important in determining whether they can remain ahead of Australia and close the gap on South Africa.
Pakistan are scheduled to face England again on October 25 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s match report. England are due to meet Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on October 22.
Minhas’ performance has given Pakistan a strong result to build on, but sustaining their ranking position will require the team to deliver across the remainder of the competition and beyond.
1. Why have Pakistan overtaken Australia in the ICC ODI rankings?
Pakistan moved ahead of Australia after consecutive victories over Sri Lanka and England in the Rawalpindi ODI tri-series. The wins lifted Pakistan to fourth place in the reported standings.
2. What is Pakistan’s position in the ICC ODI rankings?
Pakistan are reported to be fourth with 103 rating points, ahead of Australia on 102.
3. How many wickets did Arafat Minhas take against England?
Arafat Minhas took six wickets for 40 runs in the October 20, 2026, ODI against England.
4. How many runs did Arafat Minhas score?
Minhas scored 59 runs from 58 deliveries, helping Pakistan recover from an early batting setback.
5. What was the result of Pakistan vs England on October 20, 2026?
Pakistan defeated England by 87 runs. Pakistan scored 302 for nine, while England were bowled out for 215.
6. Who leads the ICC Men’s ODI team rankings?
The latest reported standings place India first with 115 rating points, followed by New Zealand on 109 and South Africa on 104.
7. How close are Pakistan to third place?
Pakistan are one rating point behind South Africa in the reported rankings, with 103 points compared with South Africa’s 104.
8. When will Pakistan play England again in the ODI tri-series?
The PCB’s match report lists October 25, 2026, for the next Pakistan-England ODI at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Readers should check the PCB’s official schedule for any subsequent changes.
