Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi made an immediate impact with the ball in the fourth match of the ODI tri-series against England, striking twice in his opening spell. However, it was Saim Ayub’s sharp reflexes and excellent fielding that grabbed attention, as the young Pakistan cricketer pulled off a superb low catch to send England’s experienced batter Joe Root back to the pavilion at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Pakistan elected to bowl first, and the decision quickly began to pay dividends. Afridi struck in the opening over to remove Tom Banton before returning to dismiss Root in his next over. The early breakthroughs put England under pressure, with Ayub’s brilliant effort adding another highlight to Pakistan’s strong start.
Saim Ayub takes a fine catch to remove Jor Root
The dismissal took place on the fifth delivery of the third over when Afridi bowled a slightly short delivery outside the off stump. Root spotted the width and attempted to cut the ball, looking to take advantage of the room offered by the left-arm pacer.
However, the England batter could not keep his shot along the ground with enough control. The ball travelled towards backward point, where Ayub was stationed and ready to react.
Reading the trajectory quickly, Ayub moved into position, lowered his body and completed a terrific catch just inches above the ground. The effort required excellent anticipation and soft hands, leaving Root with little time to react as he watched the ball settle safely in the fielder’s grasp. Low catches at backward point can be difficult to judge, particularly when the ball travels quickly off the bat and demands an immediate response.
Ayub demonstrated excellent awareness and composure to complete the catch without allowing the ball to spill out of his hands. His effort underlined the importance of sharp fielding in limited-overs cricket, where a single moment of brilliance can change the momentum of an innings.
Here’s the video:
Shaheen Afridi gets another one!! 🇵🇰
JOE ROOT GONE!!!! #PAKvsENG pic.twitter.com/VJEEVY3gLz
— A B (@6ixAB23) October 25, 2026
Pakistan wear Pink Jerseys for Breast Cancer awareness
The match also carried a special message beyond the cricket field, as Pakistan took to the ground in pink jerseys to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Day as part of the Pinktober campaign.
The occasion featured several pink-themed elements, including pink stumps, ribbons and limited-edition merchandise for supporters. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer and highlight the importance of early detection.
With Afridi striking early and Ayub producing a memorable piece of fielding, Pakistan enjoyed an encouraging opening phase against England. The combination of disciplined bowling and athletic fielding gave the hosts an early advantage, while the pink-themed occasion added a meaningful dimension to the ODI tri-series encounter.
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