Yet again, Ben is a record-breaker.
During Wednesday’s third ODI against New Zealand, Ben became England’s highest scorer in a single innings.
Bettering Jason Roy’s previous record of 180, Ben thumped 182 runs (9 sixes, 15 fours) off 128 balls. During his record-breaking innings he also passed 3000 runs in ODI matches.
This was Ben’s third match back since coming out of ODI retirement – he is clearly in prime form for the up-coming World Cup.
Thanks to a 199 run third wicket partnership between Ben and Dawid Malan (96) England finished on 368.
The New Zealand batters struggled through-out their innings and fell to a 181 run defeat.
England now take a 2-1 series lead with one match remaining.
What a difference a few days can make.
While a personal success, Ben’s return to ODI action at Sophia Gardens last Friday (8August) proved to be a disappointing match for the team.
While Ben scored his twenty-second ODI half-century, England went down by 8 wickets - his 64 ball 52 included 1 six and 3 fours.
Prior to the Cardiff ODI, Ben announced some positive news about his troublesome knee.
It is well documented that tendonitis is hindering Ben’s bowling. In an interview last Friday, Ben revealed he’s been having conversations with consultants and other specialists about a plan which will see him bowling again in 2024.
While Ben was tight-lipped on specifics, surgery might be considered. There was some speculation that a visit to the surgeon may take place after the ODI World Cup, allowing Ben time for rehab before the tour of India in January 2024.
(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
