Sloppy England start winter with Pakistan defeat

Pakistan defeated England by 87 runs in the opening match of the one-day international tri-series in Rawalpindi. All-rounder Arafat Minhas starred for the hosts by scoring 59 runs with the bat before claiming 6-40 with his left-arm spin. Despite half-centuries from Hasan Nawaz (79) for Pakistan and Tom Banton (57) for England, the visitors suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their last seven wickets for just 50 runs to be bowled out for 215.

England captain Harry Brook admitted his team was overly cautious against the spinners after strong early contributions from Banton and Ben Duckett. England's fielding mistakes, including dropped catches that allowed Pakistan to reach 302-9, heavily contributed to their downfall. The victory gives Pakistan two wins from two in the tri-series, while England prepare to face Sri Lanka on Thursday.