Cricket: England take back top spot

Morgan stars as South Africa beaten in 3rd ODI.

LONDON:

Eoin Morgan put in a match-winning performance as England registered a four-wicket win over South Africa in the third One-Day International at The Oval and also took back the top spot.

The man-of-the-match said that he is shining under the added responsibility after Kevin Pietersen’s exit from the team.

"I do feel responsibility in the middle order, but I enjoy that and I hope I can continue to help us win games," said Morgan.

The home team, chasing 212 to win, got home with four wickets and 12 balls to spare after Morgan bludgeoned his way to 73 and Jonathan Trott scored a painstaking 71. England skipper Alistair Cook praised his bowlers as they helped them level the five-match series at 1-1.

"A lot of character was shown," said Cook. "It was a really good bowling performance.

"You wouldn't want to chase too many more on that wicket."

The series continues with the 4th ODI at Lord's today.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 2^nd, 2012.