Alex Hales century leads England to 284 in second ODI against Pakistan

Hales stars as England set Pakistan 284 target

Alex Hales scored his first-ever one-day international century as England set Pakistan a target of 284 to win the second match in Abu Dhabi.

England lost quick wickets on their way to a heavy defeat in the first contest, but it was the opposite today as their innings was built on solid partnerships.

The opening duo of Hales and Jason Roy made 102 together before Roy chipped a Wahab Riaz delivery to Shoaib Malik at mid-on after making 54 off 57 balls.

Joe Root was next in and he and Hales put on another three-figure partnership, which was ended when Hales was stumped by Sarfraz Ahmed following a knock of 109.

England had given themselves a good chance of surpassing 300 as they entered the final 10 overs on 227-2, but it was Pakistan's bowlers who had the better of the closing stages.

The pace of Wahab continued to restrict Eoin Morgan and Root, with the latter departing for 63 after being foxed by a slower ball from the paceman.

England sent in big hitter Jos Buttler (11), but he lasted just nine balls before also having his wickets tumbled by a cutting Wahab delivery.

The tourists were trying to hit everything out of the ground, but they managed just two boundaries in the final five overs as Morgan (29) lost his wicket by chipping a Mohammad Irfan delivery to Babar Azam in the deep.

Author photo

Written by

Share this article:
Subscribe to our newsletter

Get FREE daily news and in-depth previews for games from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football — straight to your inbox.

Subscribe