On this day in 2016: England set the then ODI world record of 444


image-l7fvasayHales and Root were the chief destroyers that day [PC: Twitter]

Ever since their humiliating exit in the 2015 World Cup, England’s ODI side have broken several records. One such incident took place in 2016 when the Eoin Morgan led side smashed the then ODI world record total of 444 against a helpless Pakistan side at Trent Bridge.

England won the toss and Eoin Morgan decided to bat first on a belter of a track. What followed was utter carnage as Alex Hales and Joe Root toyed with the Pakistani bowling attack. The destructive duo added 248 runs for the 2nd wicket and made a mockery of the bowling attack. 

Once the duo got their eye in, there was no turning back. Hales had a remarkable 2016 and he continued his form against Pakistan by hammering 171 off just 122 deliveries, which included 22 fours and 4 maximums. Joe Root, known for his elegance, struck 85 off 86 balls as they led a strong foundation for the middle order batters.

image-l7fvdzeuHales demolished Pakistan

Once Root and Hales were dismissed, Buttler (90* off 51), and Morgan (57* off 27) carried the good work and steered England to a dominant total.

Pakistan crumbled under pressure

Score in excess of 400 is not scored everyday, and Pakistan clearly felt the pressure of chasing it. Fair to say that they had their morales at an all-time low and never recovered from the first innings assault. 

They lost wickets at regular intervals and barring Sharjeel Khan (58 off 30) nobody looked comfortable against the England bowling attack.

In a surprising turn of events, Mohammad Amir, known for his bowling, struck 58 from just 28 balls, but that wasn’t enough as Pakistan were dismissed for 275.

image-l7fvfpb6Amir took the English attack apart

Alex Hales was adjudged the Player of the Match and England took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the 5-game series.


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