'Expect Sunday's third ODI at Ageas Bowl to be stunning, too!'
Saturday 13 June 2015 11:31, UK
David Lloyd hailed the state of one-day cricket after England and New Zealand served up another run-fest at The Oval.
The Black Caps posted 398-5 in south London – Ross Taylor (119no) top scoring – before Eoin Morgan (88 from 47 balls) helped England biff their way to 365-9 from 46 overs, the hosts’ innings truncated due to rain.
New Zealand subsequently secured a 13-run victory via the Duckworth-Lewis Method to square the five-match series at 1-1, but Sky Cricket expert Lloyd was delighted with the aggressive intent of both teams.
And the former England coach is expecting more pyrotechnics when the sides meet again in Southampton on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 2.
“It’s just a different era and we are all gobsmacked at the way these teams are approaching 50-over cricket,” said Bumble.
“There is no mindset of keeping wickets in hand, building and smashing it in the last 10 overs; instead teams are going for it and picking dynamic, energetic players from one to 11.
“The players are really into it and determined to express their talents – and the pitch at the Ageas Bowl on Sunday will be cracking, as good as they are going to get.
“This is providing wonderful entertainment – though perhaps not for bowlers!”
England skipper Morgan nailed six fours and six sixes in his intoxicating knock, while a maiden ODI fifty for opener Alex Hales (54 from 49) and some lusty blows from Liam Plunkett (44 from 30), Jos Buttler (41 from 38) and Oval favourite Jason Roy (39 from 37) helped swell England’s score.
“England have caught up with the rest of the world,” added Sir Ian Botham. “A few years ago they wouldn’t have got anywhere near this, with 275 being a more realistic target.
“I am really enjoying it and I don’t think it’s going to stop.”
Watch the third ODI between England and New Zealand, from 10am, Sunday, Sky Sports 2.
