Australia claim victory in rain-affected ODI finale

Australia triumphed over England by 49 runs in the fifth ODI at Lord’s, securing the series 3-2. The England side was good, with Ben Duckett ending up with a spectacular 107 runs, while Harry Brook contributed a solid 72. However, it was Australia’s Travis Head who stole the spotlight with his exceptional spin bowling, taking 4 wickets for just 28 runs. 

His performance played a pivotal role in dismantling England’s batting lineup after they had established a strong position at 202-2. As rain interrupted Australia’s innings, they were declared winners via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, bringing the series to an end. 

Winning the toss, England opted to bat first, a decision that initially seemed wise. Openers Duckett and Jonny Bairstow set a solid foundation, with Duckett in exceptional form from the outset. He scored an impressive 107 off 92 balls, peppering the boundaries with 12 fours and two sixes. His aggressive approach put immense pressure on the Australian bowlers and allowed England to build momentum.

Harry Brook also played a crucial role, scoring 72 runs from just 52 balls. The pair’s partnership of 132 runs for the third wicket put England in a commanding position at 202-2. With the home crowd roaring in support, it appeared that England was on track to post a formidable total.

The match took a dramatic turn when Travis Head entered the bowling attack. Known primarily for his batting prowess, head’s spin bowling proved to be the catalyst for Australia’s comeback. He claimed four key wickets, effectively dismantling England’s middle order.

After Brook was dismissed by Adam Zampa, who also contributed with two wickets, England’s batting lineup began to falter. They lost their last eight wickets for just 107 runs, collapsing from their strong position of 202-2 to being all out for 309 runs. This collapse exposed England’s vulnerability against spin bowling and proved Australia’s ability to capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses.

In response to England’s total of 309, Australia started their innings aggressively. Openers Matt Short and Head formed a rapid partnership of 78 runs in just over seven overs before rain interrupted play. At that point, Australia was comfortably placed at 165-2.

The rain delay brought uncertainty but also allowed Australia to reassess their strategy. According to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, they were declared winners by 49 runs once play resumed. This unexpected turn of events left England heartbroken after their earlier dominance.