Top 5 batting performances in England's ODI history

#2 Alex Hales - 171 (122) against Pakistan, 2016

Alex Hales' scintillating century powered England to the highest ODI total of all time

Records tumbled during the third ODI of the 5-match series between England and Pakistan in 2016. On a docile track at Trent Bridge designed to evoke runs galore, the hosts won a handy toss and predictably chose to bat first. After Jason Roy fell early in the innings, Alex Hales took control of the proceedings. His sustained belligerence decimated a bowling unit containing the likes of Mohammad Amir and Hasan Ali.

Pakistan captain Azhar Ali cut a forlorn figure as Hales cut and drove his name into the record books. Making his intentions quite clear, he bludgeoned the ball instead of merely relying on timing to do the trick.

The opener eclipsed Smith's previous highest score and looked set to bring up a landmark double ton. When he was dismissed in the 37th over, Hales had amassed 171 runs from 122 balls. His spectacular knock, laced with as many as 22 boundaries and 4 sixes, powered England to the highest ODI total (444) of all time.

(Video Courtesy: England & Wales Cricket Board)