Morgan hails mature knock by smart Alex

EOIN MORGAN hailed his team’s handling of Kuldeep Yadav after their thrilling victory. ‘It was always going to be a cagey affair when we continued to lose wickets,’ he said. ‘We played Kuldeep better than we did at Old Trafford. We committed to our plans, and there was a lot more clarity to the shots we played.’ The England captain was especially complimentary about Alex Hales, whose unbeaten 58 proved the difference. ‘He played brilliantly,’ said Morgan. ‘He’s played a lot of T20 international cricket around the world, and he used that tonight. He had the composure to play a mature innings.’ Asked who would make way for Ben Stokes, who is set to play in tomorrow’s decider in Bristol, Morgan replied: ‘It will be difficult decision to make. Alex always makes it difficult, especially in Twenty20. That innings makes a strong case for selection.’ India’s captain Virat Kohli said: ‘They did their homework and played Kuldeep pretty well.’