Harry Brook’s maiden ODI century led England to a crucial victory over Australia in the third match of their series, breathing new life into the hosts’ white-ball cricket campaign.
The stand-in captain’s unbeaten 110 off 94 balls guided England to a 46-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Method at Chester-le-Street.
Chasing a target of 305, Brook’s perfectly-paced innings included 13 fours and two sixes, showcasing his ability to lead from the front.
His partnership with Will Jacks proved pivotal, as the pair put on 156 runs for the third wicket.
England were 254-4, needing just 51 runs from 74 balls, when rain curtailed the match.
The result keeps England in contention, with Australia now leading the five-match series 2-1.
Harry Brook was the skipper on Wednesday night and scored a maiden century
Reuters
England’s recovery from early setbacks was remarkable. The hosts found themselves in trouble at 11-2 inside three overs, with Phil Salt out for a duck and Ben Duckett dismissed for 8.
However, Brook and Jacks steadied the ship with their impressive 156-run partnership. Jacks contributed an elegant 84 from 82 balls before falling to Cameron Green.
Liam Livingstone’s quickfire cameo of 33 not out from 20 deliveries ensured England were well ahead of the DLS par score when rain intervened.
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The weather ultimately denied Brook the chance to see his side over the line, but England’s position was strong enough to secure victory.
They were comfortably ahead of the required rate, needing just 51 runs from 74 balls when play was halted.
Australia’s innings saw them post a competitive total of 304-7 in their 50 overs.
Steve Smith anchored the innings with a patient 60 off 82 balls, while Alex Carey provided late fireworks with an unbeaten 77 from 65 deliveries.
England’s bowling started strongly, reducing Australia to 47-2. Jofra Archer claimed 2-67, including the crucial wicket of Smith.
However, the hosts’ efforts were undermined by a poor finish to their bowling innings. Australia added 104 runs in the final 10 overs, with 55 coming in the last four.
Aaron Hardie contributed a quick 44 from 26 balls at number eight, punishing Archer in particular.
Harry Brook led England to victory with an incredible century
Reuters
The late surge pushed Australia’s total beyond 300, setting up a challenging chase for England.
The series now stands at 2-1 in Australia’s favour, with England keeping their hopes alive.
The fourth ODI is scheduled for Friday at Lord’s, with the final match set for Sunday in Bristol.
England captain Harry Brook reflected on his performance, saying: “It’s nice to get the first [century] on the board and hopefully plenty more to come.”
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England claimed an ODI victory over Australia
Reuters
Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh acknowledged the challenge posed by England’s partnership, stating: “They got a really partnership going, and in one-day cricket with a big partnership you can set the game up for yourself, fair play to them.”
With momentum now shifting, England will look to level the series at Lord’s, while Australia aim to clinch victory and maintain their impressive run of ODI successes.