Eoin Morgan hailed his England team of world record breakers as they posted an ODI best total of 481-6 at Trent Bridge – led by 147 from Notts’ Alex Hales.
The world’s number one side beat the previous record they had set at the same ground two years previously in scoring 444-3 against Pakistan.
Jonny Bairstow hit 139, Jason Roy 82 and Morgan 67 as England secured a 242-run win – their biggest in ODIs – as Australia were bowled out for 239, with Adil Rashid taking 4-47.
“With six overs to go today we could have never imagined we would come close and then pass that score against Pakistan, let along stare down the barrel of getting 500,” said Morgan.
“It’s a very proud day for us as a group. What’s most pleasing is the level of intensity we continue to operate at.
“Every batter that came in and every bowler that came on showed an unbelievable attitude. We don’t know where the game will be in a year’s time, but we are putting ourselves in the best position if we continue to challenge ourselves and follow what is a healthy learning curve.
“I suppose it is an opportunity missed in terms of going for the 500, but AJ Tye and Jhye Richardson came back and bowled some really good overs to take it out of our hands.
“It’s definitely the best performance since I have been captain by a stretch.”
“It’s definitely the best performance since I have been captain by a stretch.”
Morgan admits it will be difficult to keep all his players happy in such a talented squad.
His problem is emphasised by the fact that Hales, who now has six ODI centuries to his name, is likely to make way for Ben Stokes once the all-rounder returns from injury.
He added: “It is tough because the pride everyone takes in being in the XI and in the squad is huge.
“It is difficult to keep everyone satisfied and you’re probably not going to, but we have said for the last three years that we want a squad of players so that by the time the World Cup comes around it’s the in-form guys that are most likely to play.
“All three of those (Roy, Bairstow and Hales) are putting themselves right at the top of that list.”
*************
T20 returns to Trent Bridge on 4 July with a 2017 Finals Day rematch of Notts Outlaws v Birmingham Bears. Tickets are £10 in advance for adults, £7 for over-65s & under-21s and £5 for under 16s. Secure your seats now.