David Warner Talks About 1st ODI as Legend Applauds Pakistan's Performance

RAWALPINDI: Former Australia opener David Warner has praised Pakistan's newest ODI hero, Arafat Minhas, after the left-arm spinner delivered a record-setting performance in Pakistan's victory over Australia in the series opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The Australian veteran acknowledged the youngster's impact on social media following the match. Sharing a photo of Minhas on Instagram, Warner congratulated the debutant with a brief message: "Well done legend."

Warner About Pakistan's Performance

Warner's message came after Pakistan secured a convincing five-wicket win to move ahead in the three-match ODI series. The hosts restricted Australia to 200 before completing the chase with 45 balls remaining, thanks to key contributions from both their bowling attack and top order.

At the centre of the victory was Minhas, who made an immediate impression in international cricket. The 21-year-old spinner dismantled Australia's batting lineup, finishing with figures of 5 for 32 from his 10 overs. His spell not only shaped the result but also established a new national benchmark for ODI debutants.

No Pakistan bowler had previously taken a five-wicket haul in their first ODI appearance. Minhas also recorded the best bowling figures by a Pakistan player on ODI debut, adding another milestone to an already memorable outing.

Warner Talks About 1st ODI

While Minhas starred with the ball, Pakistan's chase was built around a composed partnership between former captain Babar Azam and Ghazi Ghori. Babar struck 69 from 94 deliveries, while Ghori contributed 65 from 92 balls as Pakistan reached 204 for 5 in 42.3 overs.

The result handed Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the series and strengthened confidence ahead of the remaining fixtures. Australia, meanwhile, will look to respond when the action shifts to Lahore.

The second and third ODIs are scheduled to be played at Gaddafi Stadium on June 2 and June 4 respectively, with Pakistan aiming to seal the series and Australia seeking a comeback after a disappointing start.