England fall just short of 400 in rout of Afghanistan

A brilliant 148 from England captain Eoin Morgan, featuring a record-breaking 17 sixes, steered the Three Lions to a comprehensive 150-run victory over tournament minnows Afghanistan.

Morgan had been a doubt for the match having suffered back spasms but he showed no ill-effects at the crease. His knock, off just 71 balls, was supplemented by scores of 90 by Jonny Bairstow and 88 from Joe Root, took the hosts to an imposing total of 397-6 at Old Trafford.

Afghanistan managed 247-8 in reply in their 50 overs as Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid took three wickets each.

That victory took England to the top of the tournament standings, above Australia who are also on eight points, but having played a match more than New Zealand and India below them.

The unbeaten Kiwis take on South Africa Wednesday and victory will end the Proteas' chances of reaching the semi-finals.

England remain 15-8 tournament favourites, just ahead of India, who are also unbeaten, at 2-1. Holders Australia are 10-3 shots with New Zealand 8-1.

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