Harry Brook’s tenure as England’s white-ball captain got off to a thunderous start with a dominant 238-run victory over the West Indies in the first ODI at Edgbaston. England racked up a formidable 400 for eight remarkably, without a single centurion – and then bowled the visitors out for just 162 in a performance that signalled a confident new era.
The innings was defined by collective firepower. Four batters scored half-centuries, and for the first time in ODI history, all of the top seven contributed at least 30 runs. It was a relentless team effort rather than an individual masterclass, but Jacob Bethell, back from the IPL and playing his first match of the summer, stole the spotlight with a blistering 82 off 53 balls. After a steady start, Bethell exploded in the latter half of his innings, scoring 63 from his last 27 deliveries. His partnership with Will Jacks, who smashed 39 in his debut innings at No. 7, added 98 runs in just seven overs, ensuring England finished with a towering total.
Brook himself chipped in with a statement knock, scoring 58 from 45 balls with three sixes. More impressive was his fielding, taking five outfield catches to equal the ODI record held by Jonty Rhodes. The performance was a clear demonstration of his all-round influence and leadership potential.
West Indies, faced with a daunting chase, crumbled under the pressure. England’s bowling attack, led by Saqib Mahmood’s three for 32 and Jamie Overton’s equally impressive three-wicket haul despite a finger injury, made early inroads. Bethell chipped in with the ball too, claiming a wicket with his left-arm spin. Only a spirited 10th-wicket partnership worth 39 runs spared West Indies an even heavier defeat.
The day saw a packed Edgbaston crowd entertained with 562 runs, 18 wickets, and some electric fielding. Brydon Carse pulled off a stunning one-handed catch on the boundary, rivalled only by Roston Chase’s acrobatics earlier in the day. There was also a glimpse of England’s evolving top order, with Jamie Smith contributing a brisk 37 alongside Ben Duckett, who continued his fine form at opener with 60 from 48 balls.
Joe Root, once the cornerstone of England’s ODI transformation under Eoin Morgan, played a measured knock of 57 from 65 balls. Though not as explosive as some of his teammates, his innings laid a solid foundation. He eventually fell to an outswinger from Jayden Seales, whose four wickets came at the cost of 84 runs from nine overs.
The tempo of England’s innings was carefully managed, and Brook emphasised the importance of setting the tone early – something he achieved himself with an aggressive six off Justin Greaves and an innovative swept six soon after. Even his dismissal, caught at deep point, came from a ferocious cut shot.
Jos Buttler’s return to the ranks after relinquishing the captaincy saw him contribute 37 off 32 balls, but it was Bethell who truly dazzled. His trademark swivel pull was on display, and though he fell short of a maiden international hundred, his impact was undeniable.
Brook was full of praise for Bethell, calling him a confident, exceptional talent destined for a long international career. The skipper’s own satisfaction was evident – not just with the record-equaling catches, but with the sense that this performance could mark the start of something special for a rejuvenated England side.
