Harry Brook couldn’t have scripted a better start to his new role as England’s full-time white-ball captain, as his side obliterated the West Indies by 238 runs in the first ODI at Edgbaston — marking one of England’s most dominant performances in recent memory.

What made the win more satisfying was that it wasn’t just about the scoreboard — it was about a team rediscovering its swagger. From the first over, the intent was clear. England posted a mountainous 400-8, their highest ODI total without a centurion, before dismantling West Indies for just 162.

Leading from the front, the 26-year-old skipper chipped in with a brisk 58 off 45 balls, while the real fireworks came from 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, who smashed a sensational 82 off 53 deliveries. His knock, packed with eight fours and five towering sixes, turned heads and set the tone for what might be a generational shift in England’s batting approach.

Speaking after the game, Brook hailed the win as a “phenomenal performance,” and few would argue. “We played the kind of aggressive, smart cricket we want to be known for. Bethell was outstanding — fearless and calculated,” he said.

Batting first after being sent in, England had four batters—Bethell, Brook, Joe Root (57), and Ben Duckett (60)—score fifties, laying the foundation of a total that the Windies never looked capable of chasing. Notably, Bethell and Will Jacks added a jaw-dropping 100 runs in just seven overs during the final stretch, showcasing the ruthless depth of this new-look side.

West Indies crumbled quickly in response, losing half their side for just 79 runs. Only tail-ender Jayden Seales managed to resist briefly with an unbeaten 29, while frontline batters failed to trouble the scoreboard. England’s bowlers—Saqib Mahmood (3-32), Adil Rashid, and Brydon Carse—delivered with both skill and precision, with Carse’s one-handed boundary catch to dismiss Windies captain Shai Hope standing out as a moment of athletic brilliance.

The ODI marked a fresh beginning for England, who had been on a seven-match losing streak in the format. Brook, who took over the captaincy from Jos Buttler earlier this year, needed a strong showing — and got just that.

Sky Sports pundit Eoin Morgan praised Bethell, calling his innings “a perfect mix of power and poise” and adding, “He’s just 21 but already playing like he’s been around for a decade. The world is his oyster.”

With the Club World Cup looming and a packed cricketing calendar ahead, this ODI win not only lifts team morale but signals a resurgent England side ready to reclaim their dominance on the world stage.

The second ODI takes place this Sunday at Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens, followed by the final game of the series at The Oval. For Brook, Bethell, and company — this is just the beginning.