Jonny Bairstow hits maiden ODI century as England ease to win over West Indies
Jonny Bairstow’s maiden one-day international century led England to victory over the West Indies.
Jonny Bairstow bagged a maiden one-day international hundred as England eased to seven-wicket win over West Indies to go 1-0 up in the Royal London Series.
This first match of five was most notable for an unexpected two-hour delay at Old Trafford, and consequent reduction to 42 overs-per-side because of a wet outfield which declined to dry out in time for the scheduled start time of 1230.
When play did break out, the Windies got a flying start from the returning Chris Gayle but faltered to fine bowling from Adil Rashid and Ben Stokes (three for 43).
Bairstow (100no) then ensured a routine win with more than 11 overs to spare in pursuit of just 204 for nine, as England consigned their opponents to the prospect of a 2019 World Cup qualifying tournament early next year.
Ben 1 Marlon 0
The latest rematch between old adversaries Ben Stokes and Marlon Samuels went decidedly in the England all-rounder’s favour. Samuels was perhaps distracted from the bigger picture by their reunion, and mustered only 17 runs from 46 balls before going caught-behind down the leg-side off Stokes after DRS.
Stat of the day
18-0-74-5 – Adil Rashid and Ben Stokes’ combined figures gave England a decisive advantage as the Windies missed their score, despite a flying start.
Long road to the World Cup
For the Windies it is, certainly. They needed an improbable whitewash in this series to book their place automatically in the 2019 global tournament in England. After their false start in Manchester, instead they face a qualifying competition set to take place next year – perhaps in Zimbabwe.
Tweet of the day
What next?
Match two of five at Trent Bridge on Thursday.