England’s struggles against spin bowling resurfaced in a heavy defeat to Pakistan during the opening match of the one-day international (ODI) tri-series in Rawalpindi on Tuesday. Pakistan posted a total of 302 runs for nine wickets, powered by a resilient 59 from left-arm spinner Arafat Minhas, who then took six wickets for 40 runs in a standout bowling performance. England were all out for 215, losing by 87 runs.
After a strong start from England’s openers, Tom Banton and Ben Duckett, who put on 91 runs, the batting lineup faltered against Pakistan’s spin attack. Arafat Minhas, playing just his fifth ODI, used a combination of arm balls, subtle variations, and moderate turn to disrupt the English innings. His dismissal of England captain Harry Brook, who scored 48 runs, was highlighted by a delivery that turned sharply to hit the stumps. Minhas went on to claim most of the lower-order wickets, including a direct-hit run-out to finish the innings. Pakistan’s fielding was also praised for its effectiveness in supporting the bowling performance.
England captain Harry Brook acknowledged the team’s difficulties against spin, noting they adopted an overly defensive approach at crucial moments. “At the halfway stage, we were pretty happy,” Brook said, reflecting on keeping Pakistan’s total under pressure. However, with the bat, he said the players failed to build enough partnerships and lost wickets in clusters, which prevented them from maintaining pressure on the bowlers. Brook also mentioned that while the team has focused on rotating the strike against spin, they need to balance defense with more aggressive shot-making to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Another analysis pointed to England allowing the momentum to slip away after reaching 120 runs for one wicket by the 19th over. The middle overs saw a boundary-less 48-ball span, during which the run rate climbed sharply, contributing to England’s eventual collapse. Fielding lapses, such as those by Gus Atkinson and wicketkeeper Jordan Cox, were noted as contributing factors that allowed Pakistan’s lower order to extend the innings and boost the target.
Despite the defeat, some positive signs emerged from England’s approach. The team’s bowling attack featured six different bowlers, including three spinners in the final ten overs, demonstrating tactical flexibility. This approach contrasts with England’s previous reliance on reverse swing, which was less effective under Pakistan’s conditions. The promotion of all-rounder Sam Curran to No. 5 in the batting order was also recognized for adding variation, given his left-handed stance and proficiency against spin, although this adjustment did not ultimately change the outcome.
The loss, England’s first significant defeat in white-ball cricket since last year, comes ahead of their next tri-series match against Sri Lanka at the same venue on Thursday. The series serves as part of England’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled to be held in southern Africa, where they aim to adapt their strategies for diverse playing conditions. Brook emphasized the team’s resilience and intention to learn from this match as they continue their campaign.