England has produced some great opening partnerships in T20 International cricket that have left a mark on the game. These partnerships not only highlight the English players’ blazing-hitting talent but also the team’s ability to establish strong foundations early in their innings.
3. 132*– Jos Buttler/ Alex Hales vs Australia in Perth in 2022
Alex Hales and Jos Buttler smashed a second-string Australian attack in a record 132-run opening partnership, which led to a massive score of 208/6. A wonderful chance awaited Buttler and Hales, who had been given the chance ahead of Phil Salt. During the powerplay, the duo scored 58 runs.
Butler scored 68 runs off 32 balls at a strike rate of 212.50, hitting four sixes and eight fours. On the other hand, Hales who started off slowly scored 84 runs off 51 balls at a strike rate of 164.70, hitting 12 fours and three sixes. By hitting the pitch hard, and bowling a clever mix of slower deliveries, Mark Wood was the clear standout bowler for England with 3 for 20 from four overs while the other bowlers each conceded more than 9.75 runs per over. Giving England an 8 runs victory over the Aussies.
2. 143* – Alex Hales/ Michael Lumb vs New Zealand in Wellington in 2013
In 2013, Michael Lumb and Alex Hales created a devastating opening partnership in a 3rd T20I match against New Zealand. Their combined efforts resulted in a 143-run partnership, demonstrating their aggressive style of T20 cricket made England win the match by 10 wickets with 44 balls to spare.
Lumb’s experience and Hales’ aggressive style of play worked well together, allowing them to establish a solid platform for England’s chase. Batting first, the Kiwis could only score 139 for 8, credits to the English bowlers and fielders. Only opener Martin Guptil scored 59 runs off 55 balls giving them a fighting total. The result secured a 2-1 series victory for England.
1. 170* -Alex Hales / Jos Buttler vs India in Adelaide in 2022
England produced a sensational performance against India at the Adelaide Oval to enter the final of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2022. Captain Jos Butler and Alex Hales cruised to a 10-wicket victory over India in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup.
In the first innings, India batted first and scored 168 runs in 20 overs. Virat Kohli shined once more with the bat, he scored a stunning half-century. Hardik Pandya too had a brilliant performance, scoring 63 runs in 33 balls. England, on the other hand, were unstoppable in their run chase. Hales was unbeaten on 86 runs off just 47 deliveries and Buttler was unbeaten on 80 runs in just 49 balls as the target of 169 was reached in 16 overs.
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