Moeen Ali starred with bat and ball, taking three wickets before scoring a blistering 21-ball half century as an England XI breezed past Sri Lanka A in Colombo.
Ali, promoted to the top of the order in the first of two warm-up matches ahead of the seven-match ODI series, scored six fours in his first over to ensure that the target of 198 quickly crumbled.
After the match ended early due to bad light, Ali’s antics and a welcome half century for Alastair Cook had pushed England on to 145-2 after 25 overs, Joe Root and Ian Bell continuing to add runs until bad light stopped proceedings.
Ali’s inclusion as an opener had initially prompted a ripple of apprehension – seemingly hinting toward a cautious approach from England, with many hoping that Nottinghamshire’s Alex Hales would be rewarded for an excellent summer.
His boundaries and runs will have justified that decision, as will his ability with the ball. Collecting an economical 3-29 from his nine overs, England prospered initially through a pair of early strikes from Steven Finn, before Ali and James Tredwell bogged down the middle order.
Nottinghamshire’s three representatives – Alex Hales, James Taylor and Harry Gurney, will all be hoping to feature in England’s second warm up game on Sunday, ahead of the series' curtain-raiser on Wednesday.
Trent Bridge hosts the fourth Royal London One-Day International between England and New Zealand on Wednesday 17 June. Don't miss the chance to take in what promises to be an absorbing contest and secure your seat now.