Last year, the middle-order batsman made 639 runs from 11 matches, averaging 91.28. Now, in the three-match ODI series against the visiting Sri Lankans in the new year, which the home side swept, he finished as the top-scorer. With scores of 54, 90 and 137, he averages 93.67 in 2019.

His ODI hundred on Tuesday, January 8, not only helped seal a convincing 115-run win, but also set a new benchmark.

“It’s nice to contribute and it was nice to bat with Ross out there,” said Nicholls, who shared a 154-run fourth-wicket stand with Taylor.

“The consistency he has is testament to the experience and quality he has and it’s great to be able to bat with him in the middle and see how he goes about it. I learn from that every time I bat or train with him.”

Taylor too was heaped praise on Nicholls, saying: “I thought he came out and was busy from ball one and set the tone, which made my job a lot easier. I’m sure it’s going to be the first of many hundreds.”