England’s resurgence in the ODI series against Australia continued at Lord’s, where they annihilated the visitors by 186 runs in a rain-shortened match. The hosts’ batting onslaught, led by Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone, set the stage for a dominant victory, while Matthew Potts’ four-wicket haul sealed the deal.
After a two-hour rain delay, England’s innings began cautiously against the formidable Australian pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. However, Brook’s reprieve on 17 sparked a remarkable turnaround. The Yorkshireman unleashed a flurry of boundaries, reaching his fourth ODI fifty in just 37 balls.
Ben Duckett provided solid support, contributing 63 before falling to Adam Zampa. Brook continued to dominate, but his dismissal on 87 left England needing a late surge. Enter Livingstone, who unleashed a blistering assault on Starc, smashing four sixes in the final over to propel England to a daunting 312-5.
Australia’s chase began promisingly, with Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh putting on 66 runs. However, Head’s dismissal triggered a collapse. Steve Smith departed cheaply, and Jofra Archer’s unplayable delivery sent Marsh packing. Brydon Carse then struck twice in quick succession, removing Josh Inglis and Marnus Labuschagne.
Potts took over from there, claiming three more wickets to complete a career-best four-for. Only four Australian batsmen managed to reach double figures as the hosts rolled over their opponents for a mere 126 all out.
England’s victory not only leveled the series at 2-2 but also marked their second-biggest ODI win in terms of runs against Australia. The decider will take place in Bristol on Sunday, where the hosts will aim to secure a memorable series triumph.
