Mark Wood

Mark Wood claims it’s not unrealistic to expect England to score 500 in an ODI innings

England fast bowler Mark Wood has said it is a realistic possibility for the current ODI team to sail past a score of 500 in an ODI innings.

Eoin Morgan’s side have cemented their position as favourites for the upcoming Cricket World Cup with consummate batting displays against West Indies, Ireland and Pakistan this year.

And ahead of the fourth ODI in the series against Pakistan in Nottingham, the Durham quick said scores over 400 had been achievable without the batting line-up hitting top gear.

“That is a realistic target for our one-day team,” Wood told BBC Sport when asked if England could break the 500-run barrier.

“It’s almost normal to get 350; 400 is easily gettable. We truly believe that we can chase down high scores, no matter what the opposition get.”

England return to Trent Bridge on Friday, the venue where the team highlighted their promising World Cup credentials in 2016 by setting of new highest-score record when posting 444-3 against Pakistan.

That record was smashed a year later at the same venue when Australia were on the receiving end of three partnerships exceeding 100 runs, as England posted 481-6 to beat their foes.

Wood is likely to take to the field for the first time in the series against Pakistan, with medical staff currently monitoring inflammation to Chris Woakes’ knee.

One of the players named in the 15-man preliminary squad for the World Cup, the 29-year-old said he is unfazed by the arrival of Jofra Archer as the battle for places heats up in the England arsenal.

“Everyone wants to make the World Cup squad, so you’re desperate to push your case,” Wood added.

“Jofra is world-class and I would fully expect him to be in the World Cup squad. That leaves four or five of us trying to fight it out for the other places.

“Everyone has done well, it’s hard to say what will happen. It means that tomorrow I will have step up and put in a good performance.

“I feel fit and strong, and in good rhythm in practice, but there’s nothing like a game when you are under pressure and you need that extra adrenaline,” he said. “I can’t wait to get out there and try to win the series.”

England lead the series 2-0 and will assure themselves of another scalp by avoiding defeat in Nottingham, with the fifth and final ODI taking place at Headingley on Sunday.

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