England win World Intellectual Impairment Sport Tri-Series Final

NESTON, ENGLAND – JULY 17: Dan Bowser and Chris Edwards of England during the World Intellectual Impairment Sport Tri-Series Trophy match between England and Australia on July 17, 2017 in Neston, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

England took the first honours in the World Intellectual Impairment Sport Tri-Series supported by NatWest with a comprehensive eight wicket victory over Australia in the 40 over final today.

Australian skipper Gavan Hicks won the toss on a glorious day at Neston Cricket Club and had no hesitation in opting to bat first.

The decision looked justified as he and Boyd Duffield raced to 80 without loss within 12 overs. England quickly fought back as Duffield became one of three dismissals for England captain Chris Edwards (3-24) as a mini collapse saw the Australians slump to 94-5.

Hicks kept his team in the hunt as he top scored with 77 to help Australia post 165 all out. Alex Jervis was again amongst the wickets, going for only nine runs in his eight overs while picking up two wickets.

Dan Bowser and Edwards broke the back of the reply with a partnership of 123 for the second wicket. Edwards fell for 42 but Bowser steered England home to victory with an unbeaten 93 at better than a run a ball.

The competition now switches to T20 format with all three sides playing at Toft Cricket Club tomorrow.

For more: www.ecb.co.uk