Morgan hails 'exceptional' England newcomers post first T20 win

England skipper Eoin Morgan has heaped praise on his young side, describing newcomers as 'exceptional' following their 14-run win over Pakistan in their first Twenty20 international of the three-match series in Dubai.

England had rested two of their best players Jos Buttler and Joe Root for the opening match.

Explaining the strategy behind the selection, the 29-year-old revealed that they were focusing on expanding the squad, insisting that some of their experienced players had to sit out for the long-term benefit, the Guardian reported.

England have only limited T20 internationals ahead of next year's World Cup in India. They will play two games at the tail-end of the South Africa tour in addition to two warm-up matches in India before the mega-event.

Earlier, debutant James Vince and wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings scored crucial knocks of 41 and 53, with captain Morgan remaining unbeaten on 45 to set a 160-run target for Pakistan.

In response, Pakistan failed to get a good partnership as wickets continued to fall in quick succession and were eventually bundled out for 146.

Liam Plunkett and Reece Tropley bagged three wickets each while Stephen Parry and Moeen Ali shared three wickets between themselves.

Billings was adjudged as the Man of the Match for his brilliant contribution with the bat.

With the win, England are now leading the series 1-0 and will play their second match against Pakistan in Dubai today.