Alex Hales’ all-time national-record 171 – bettering Robin Smith’s 167 not out 23 years ago – England’s world-best 444 for three and Jos Buttler’s new mark for this country’s fastest one-day global 50 from just 22 balls all naturally overshadowed Woakes’ commendable efforts.
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It was not until he had a run-a-ball 50 under his belt that Stokes picked out deep midwicket off Imad – and if any fresh doubts were briefly sown, Bairstow ensured they did not last long.
Hales showed plenty of aggression but, having completed his half century off 55 deliveries, he got a reprieve when he was caught off Riaz’s no-ball on 72.
Root played the anchor role with assurety and composure, knocking the ball around for a rock-solid 85 off 86 balls, allowing the explosive Hales to take centre-stage.
The Pakistani batsmen were never really in the run chase and kept losing wickets at regular intervals.
Alex Hales, hits England’s highest ever score in ODI cricket, a majestic 171 surpassing Robin Smith’s unbeaten 167 at Edgbaston in 1993 against Australia, which was not enough to win the game. “We’re still learning with the bat and ball and still improving in the field so hopefully there’s a lot more to come in the next two years”, Hales said.
Only under-fire captain Azhar Ali (80) and number eight Imad Wasim (57not out) hit half-centuries for Pakistan, as Adil Rashid (three for 47) and Moeen Ali shared five wickets.
Pakistan’s Sharjeel Khan leaves the field after getting out for for 16 runs against England during the fourth one day global at Headingley cricket ground, Leeds. “I hope not as a bowler”.
“To get the record there with the last ball was unbelievable”.
“It was just an unbelievable day really”.
Chris Woakes has become the fourth player to admit he is not yet able to commit to the tour – although he stressed Dickason’s reassurances do carry weight with the team, and confirmed discussions are ongoing even through the current series with European Central Bank director Andrew Strauss and others. It’s only happened since 12 months ago, that series against New Zealand, but we do have to pinch ourselves a little bit because the improvements have been dramatic from where we were.
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“Exceptional innings from Alex Hales and Jos Buttler”, Azhar said.
