England`s ODI improvement leaves Morgan excited

Karachi [Pakistan], Sept.5 (ANI):Following a five-match ODI series win against Pakistan 4-1, England's limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan has admitted he felt excited to see his side's terrific progress in 50-over cricket. Although England still remain fifth in world's ODI rankings, they showcased a brilliant turnaround since their embarrassing first-round exit at last year's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Insisting that England played outstandingly well throughout the series against Pakistan, the 29-year-old believes his side came out with hunger and determination against the Azhar Ali led-Pakistani side. Morgan said he also remained encouraged by his side's commitment to an aggressive approach in ODI cricket since their World Cup debacle, the Express Tribune reported. Morgan, however, denied his England of being favourites for the 2017 Champions Trophy and the 2019 World Cup, which they will be hosting. Morgan pointed out that all sides are playing some really strong cricket and, therefore, it is extremely difficult to label anyone as favourites. England failed to seal a series whitewash against Pakistan following their four-wicket defeat in the fifth and the final ODI in Cardiff on Sunday. Put in to bat first, England fell short of what they wanted in making 302 for nine in Cardiff, with opener Jason Roy top-scoring with 87 and all-rounder Ben Stokes contributing his ODI best score of 75. In reply, Sarfraz Ahmed smashed a blistering 90-run knock, including ten boundaries and one six, besides sharing a huge 163-run partnership with Shoaib Malik (77) to chase down the target with 10 balls to spare. The two sides will now play lone T20 match on September 7 at Old Trafford in Manchester. (ANI)