England demolish West Indies as Harry Brook captaincy era starts with a bang

After electing to bat first, England piled on a mammoth 400 for 8, ending a seven-match losing streak in ODIs and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Making his debut as England's permanent white-ball captain, Harry Brook led from the front with a composed 58, anchoring a power-packed top order. It was Barbados-born Jacob Bethell, however, who stole the show on his Warwickshire home ground. Back from IPL duty, the 20-year-old smashed 82 off 62 balls, marking a breakout performance on the international stage.

Support came from Ben Duckett (60) and Joe Root (57), as England's top four all notched half-centuries in a batting masterclass.

For the West Indies, it was a bruising day with the ball. While Jayden Seales claimed 4 wickets, he was expensive - conceding 84 runs in nine overs - as England's batters took control from the outset.

Needing a record run chase to win - only South Africa's legendary 438-9 against Australia in 2006 surpasses the target - the West Indies crumbled under pressure.

They were bowled out for just 162 in 26.5 overs, with tailender Seales' unbeaten 29 the top score in a dismal innings that saw only three batters reach 20.

England's bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Jamie Overton (3-22) and Saqib Mahmood (3-32) led the charge, backed by sharp fielding and disciplined lines that never allowed the visitors to settle.

The emphatic result sends a strong message about England's intent in white-ball cricket under Brook's leadership, particularly after a difficult run of recent form.

The series now moves to Cardiff on Sunday before concluding at The Oval on Tuesday.

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