Moeen Ali was England’s most economical bowler, picked up his 50th ODI wicket and hit the winning runs as his side overcame Australia by five wickets in the opening clash of the 50 over series in Melbourne.
The Worcestershire all-rounder came into the attack after 17 overs with Australia 93-3 and bowled his allocation of 10 overs straight through.
The 30-year-old kept the Australians in check at his end and was rewarded in his final over with the wicket of century-maker Aaron Finch.
The opening batsman made 107 off 119 balls with three sixes and 10 fours but then went for a big hit on the leg side and holed out to Jonny Bairstow at deep mid wicket.
Moeen finished with the excellent figures of 10-0-39-1.
Australia totalled 304-8 in their 50 overs with Moeen also taking a catch to dismiss wicket-keeper Tim Paine off Liam Plunkett.
A magnificent 180 by Jason Roy – the highest ever score in ODI cricket by an England batsman – powered the tourists to the brink of victory.
Moeen came to the wicket after Jos Buttler’s dismissal and clubbed Travis Head back down the ground for four to seal victory as he finished five not out.
Test skipper Joe Root was unbeaten on a fine 91 at the other end.
