Arafat Minhas is rising as a top all-rounder for Pakistan. The 21-year-old continues to impress with match-winning performances in international cricket.
Arafat Minhas recently proved his value to Pakistan cricket. The 21-year-old all-rounder helped his team win a tri-nation ODI series final against Sri Lanka. Pakistan needed 125 runs from 79 balls when he entered the game. He helped lead a successful chase under the stadium floodlights.
Next, Minhas showed incredible composure during the high-pressure match. He hit five sixes and scored 61 runs off 31 balls. This performance earned him the player of the series award. He finished the tournament with nine total wickets and 149 runs.
Also, the young star previously dominated against England in October. He scored 59 runs and took six wickets for 40 runs. This effort secured an 87-run win for Pakistan. Experts now praise his ability to contribute in every phase of the game.
Furthermore, Minhas joined an elite group of Pakistani players. He is only the third man to score a half-century and take five wickets in one ODI. He also made history during his debut against Australia in May. He became the first Pakistani to take five wickets in his first ODI appearance.
Meanwhile, the athlete credits his father for his early development. His father, Kashif, taught him left-arm spin at age eight. Kashif once played cricket himself but left the sport to run a family business. He eventually built a rooftop practice facility to help his sons train.
Then, Minhas moved quickly through the country's youth cricket system. He excelled as an under-16 player and later joined the under-19 national team. His performance in the 2024 Under-19 World Cup helped prepare him for senior competition.
Finally, the Minhas family continues to chase success together. His younger brother, Sameer, recently earned a spot on the national Test squad. A third brother, Abdullah, also plays cricket. Their father hopes to see all three sons represent Pakistan on the same team.
Still, Arafat remains focused on his own growth. He avoids labels like batting or bowling specialist. Instead, he views himself as a complete all-rounder. He believes his current success is just one step toward bigger goals.