England’s ODI win a boost for Ashes

ENGLAND one-day captain Eoin Morgan hopes the feelgood factor generated by his side’s limited overs series win against New Zealand will carry on into next month’s Ashes series.

A miserable first-round exit at this year’s World Cup, including an eight-wicket thrashing by finalists New Zealand, and a subsequent 1-1 test series draw away to the West Indies, left many England supporters fearful of the fate that might befall their side against old rivals Australia.

But there were encouraging signs during the recent 1-1 test series draw with New Zealand, while the bold manner in which England played during a 3-2 one-day triumph over the Black Caps reinvigorated players and fans.

“I think there is a great feel-good factor going around cricket at the moment and it started with the test series against New Zealand, which was very competitive,” Morgan said after Saturday’s thrilling ODI series-clinching success in Durham.

“Let’s hope going into the Ashes we can maintain that support throughout the summer and it makes a contribution to the result,” the former Ireland batsman said. He is not involved in England’s test set-up.

Also on the “outside looking in”, ahead of the first Ashes test against Australia in Cardiff, is Riverside matchwinner Jonny Bairstow.

He was only called into England’s one-day squad on Friday after fellow wicket-keeper Jos Buttler suffered a hand in- jury during fielding practice.

Bairstow marked his return to England duty with an unbeaten 83 in a three-wicket win under the Duckworth/ Lewis method.

England, who slumped to 45 for five, chased down a revised target of 192 in 26 overs with six balls to spare after a lengthy rain delay.

As for adding to his 14 test caps, the 25-year-old Bairstow -- in the squad for tomorrow’s lone Twenty20 against New Zealand at Old Trafford -- said: “To get the three lions back on is fantastic. Who knows what’s around the corner?” – AFP