England start winter with Pakistan defeat in tri-series

England men's cricket team began their winter touring schedule with a sloppy loss to Pakistan in the one-day international tri-series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan posted a total of 302-9 from their 50 overs before bowling England out for 215 within 38.4 overs, securing an 87-run victory in the opening fixture.

This match marks the first of five separate tours across four countries and three continents for England, serving as crucial preparation for next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. The tri-series format was specifically designed to replicate tournament pressure and permutations, though early mistakes ultimately cost the touring side.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

The turning point arrived when diving wicketkeeper Jordan Cox dropped Arafat Minhas on 12 during the 37th session, one of three spilled catches by England. Capitalizing on the lifeline, Arafat scored a crucial 59 runs and combined with Hasan Nawaz, who powered through with 79 runs from 74 balls, lifting Pakistan to a competitive 302-9.

Despite a rapid start to the chase reaching 91-0 through Ben Duckett's 45 and Tom Banton's 57, England's momentum faded following a series of unforced errors. Banton was caught after mistiming a shot off Arafat, while captain Harry Brook fell for five, and Joe Root was bowled by Naseem Shah for 33 after a low-keeping delivery.