Twiter Reactions: Eoin Morgan's half-century and Jofra Archer's clinical bowling help England win the thrilling contest

England managed to deliver another brilliant performance despite planting their second best XI in the only T20I against Pakistan in Cardiff. Captain Eoin Morgan led from the front as his fifty at a crucial juncture, well supported by a cameo from Joe Denly, helped the hosts pull off a thrilling run chase.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Fakhar Zaman walked back early in the innings for the visiting side. Soon after, Imam-ul-Haq was outdone by the brilliance of Jofra Archer, who won his first T20I wicket. With the Men in Green losing two big wickets inside the first six overs, Babar Azam and Haris Sohail took the responsibility on themselves to put up a big score.

Young Babar Azam once again proved why he is so highly rated. He registered a half-century at a strike rate in excess of 150 and stitched a 103-run partnership with Haris Sohail. The 30-year-old all-rounder registered a fifty as well, putting his side in a commanding position. Some quick wickets halted the momentum with Azam and Sohail getting dismissed in quick succession.

Imad Wasim and Faheem Ashraf struck a few boundaries towards the end as Pakistan finished with 173/6. It could’ve been much higher for England’s liking if not for Jofra Archer‘s (2/29) brilliant effort in the death overs.

Morgan, Root and Denly shine for the hosts

Ben Duckett’s T20I debut didn’t turn out to be very memorable as Shaheen Afridi sent him back very early. Yet, James Vince took on the bowlers and ensured they took advantage of the field restrictions. He added a crucial 45-run partnership with Joe Root, before getting dismissed for a 27-ball 36.

Root and skipper Eoin Morgan then settled in to put up a brilliant show for the hosts. Despite some struggles, Root chipped in with some delightful shots. Morgan was able to bat very freely despite all pressure and struck boundaries at will. After Root was dismissed, there was some pressure building on the hosts, but Joe Denly and the skipper had other ideas.

They played some smart cricket and took it to the final over. Morgan brought up his half-century in the final over and finished the game with a six over long-off. England registered a thumping 7-wicket win with their captain leading from the front.

Here’s how Twitter reacted after this nail-biting encounter:

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