England finally got out of the World Cup dungeon but plenty of cobwebs remain after a comfortable win over Scotland in Christchurch on Day 10. Facing the embarrassing indignity of bowing out before the knockout round after two opening defeats (including a remarkably one sided one to New Zealand on Friday), England just about managed to turn their campaign around thanks to Moeen Ali’s powerful hundred. England are now all but assured a quarter-final spot if they can get passed Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Here’s what transpired:
Day 10 Results
England v Scotland
The overcast Hagely Oval conditions encouraged Scotland to bowl first, but they were soon made to regret that decision as England’s openers Ian Bell and Ali piled on a rapid partnership of 172. The partnership was completely dominated by Ali, who had brought up his second one day hundred just one ball after Bell had fifty to his name. Ali’s leg side dominant masterclass outlined just how free his mind is compared to those of his colleagues. He played with confidence, belief and a lack of fear that resulted in quick scoring domination of the opposition attack. The difference in approach was on display a short time later, after Bell and Ali had both been removed. Root, Ballance, Morgan and Taylor all struggled for momentum in the powerplay – presumably, fear of being subject to media scrutiny again getting in the way of their natural games (as did the cobwebs). England did manage to get to 300, Jos Buttler, who should have been promoted once Bell was out, was crucial in helping them get there.
The bowlers did what they needed to. They didn’t bowl particularly well, but Scotland’s batting efforts have been the most disappointing of the associate nations in this World Cup so far given their strong warm up form. Scotland were all out for 184. The wickets were share amongst all of the bowlers, with Moeen Ali showing off his all round prowess with a useful two wickets to complete his man of the match display.
Steven Finn’s display will probably ease some concerns over his form. His three wickets will help block the memories of the two overs he bowled to Brendon McCullum (0-49 if you need reminding).
England 303 for 8 (Moeen 128, Bell 54, Davey 4-68) beat Scotland 184 (Coetzer 71, Finn 3-26, Moeen 2-47) by 119 runs
Betfair:
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Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
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Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
