England broke their losing streak with a convincing 160-run victory over the Netherlands at MCA Stadium, Pune, rejuvenating their hopes of qualifying for the Champions Trophy 2025. Ben Stokes' stellar 108-run innings, combined with a disciplined bowling performance, propelled England from the bottom of the points table to the seventh position, securing their second win in the ODI World Cup 2023. Meanwhile, the Netherlands slid to the bottom of the table due to an inferior run rate compared to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
During the game, former India coach Ravi Shastri and ex-England captain Eoin Morgan indulged in a hilarious banter when a fan was spotted holding a placard that read: "England need Indian coach."
Shastri expressed his willingness to take the job and came up with a reply that left listeners in splits.
"Haan, humko bulao, hum sabko Hindi sikhayega. What I am trying to say is, yeah, most welcome. I'll teach everyone Hindi and some cricket as well, Not a problem," Shastri told Morgan in the commentary box.
Coming back to the game, opting to bat first after winning the toss, Jos Buttler's decision paid off as Dawid Malan set the tone with a brisk start. Despite Jonny Bairstow's early dismissal, Malan continued his aggressive approach, reaching a half-century from 36 balls. Joe Root contributed 28 runs but was dismissed with a reverse scoop. Malan, scoring 87 runs from 74 balls, featured 10 fours and two sixes before being run out after a mix-up with Stokes.
England faced setbacks with the dismissals of Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, and Moeen Ali. At 192/6 in 35.2 overs, Stokes and Chris Woakes formed a crucial partnership. Stokes reached his maiden World Cup century with an explosive display, hitting three sixes and a four in the 45th over. Woakes also played positively, scoring 51 before being dismissed. Stokes, with a brilliant 108 runs from 84 balls, featuring six sixes and fours each, guided England to a formidable total of 339/9.
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