England demolished West Indies by 238 runs in the first ODI, with Harry Brook’s captaincy debut marked by Jacob Bethell’s 82 and five catches.
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Brook’s Captaincy Debut Success
Harry Brook’s tenure as England’s full-time white-ball captain began in sensational fashion as his side thrashed West Indies by 238 runs at Edgbaston.
England’s 400-8, their highest total since 2019, proved insurmountable for the visitors, who collapsed to 162 all out in 26.2 overs.
Brook himself contributed 58 off 45 balls and equaled Jonty Rhodes’ record with five catches in the field, showcasing his leadership and athleticism.
The result ended England’s seven-match ODI losing streak and marked their second-largest victory in the format, trailing only a 242-run win over Australia in 2018.
Bethell Shines in Homecoming
Jacob Bethell stole the spotlight with a career-best 82 off 53 balls, including eight fours and five sixes.
The 21-year-old, born in Barbados, unleashed his Caribbean flair on his home ground, powering England’s late surge with a 98-run partnership alongside Will Jacks (39).
His innings highlighted England’s depth, as four batters—Brook, Ben Duckett (60), Joe Root (57), and Bethell—scored fifties without a single century.
Historic Catches and Bowling Mastery
England’s dominance extended to the field, where Brydon Carse produced a stunning boundary catch to dismiss West Indies captain Shai Hope (25).
Saqib Mahmood (3-32) and Jamie Overton (3-22) dismantled the visitors’ top order, while Brook’s five catches underscored his team’s defensive intensity.
West Indies’ struggles were compounded by Evin Lewis’ injury absence and a disjointed bowling effort, with Jayden Seales (4-84) conceding heavily despite his wickets.
England vs West Indies: A Dominant Start
The result sets the stage for England to seal the series in Cardiff on June 1. West Indies, missing the 2023 World Cup, face pressure to regroup, with Hope acknowledging their failure to “make early inroads”.
For England, the victory reignites hopes of rebuilding their white-ball legacy, echoing their 2015 Edgbaston resurgence that led to World Cup glory.
Next Up: The England vs West Indies rivalry continues in Cardiff on Sunday, June 1 (11:00 AM BST), where England will aim to clinch the series with a second win.
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket, with both teams eyeing momentum ahead of the final ODI at The Oval on June 3.
