England endured a heavy 87-run loss to Pakistan in their opening match of the winter one-day international tri-series held in Rawalpindi. The defeat was shaped by a dominant all-round performance from Pakistan’s Arafat Minhas, who played a pivotal role with both bat and ball.

Pakistan, coming off a victory against Sri Lanka earlier in the weekend, posted a competitive total of 302 for nine. The innings appeared in trouble at 133 for five, but Arafat’s composed 59 runs, supported by a lively 79 from Hasan Nawaz, helped the hosts recover. Nawaz’s innings featured five boundaries and four sixes, providing crucial momentum in the middle overs. Despite England’s disciplined bowling effort, fielding lapses allowed Pakistan to post their total.

In response, England got off to a promising start with an opening partnership of 91 runs between Ben Duckett and Tom Banton. However, Arafat Minhas shifted the momentum dramatically by dismissing Banton early and then bowling Harry Brook for a low score, with the wicket coming in only Brook’s fifth ODI appearance. Arafat’s 21-year-old off-spinner proceeded to dismantle England’s middle and lower order, finishing with career-best figures of six wickets for 40 runs.

England’s innings collapsed from 197 for five to 214 all out in 38.4 overs, well short of the target. The late collapse prevented England from recovering, despite initially favorable conditions after winning the toss and opting to field. Arafat also contributed in the field, executing the run out that effectively secured Pakistan’s victory.

The result marked a disappointing start for Harry Brook’s side in the tri-series, highlighting the impact of Pakistan’s young spinner and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure in the field. The match set the tone for a competitive tournament as England look to rebound in upcoming fixtures.