Travis Head continued his impressive form, leading Australia to a seven-wicket victory over England with his lightning century in the first ODI of the five-match series on Thursday, September 19.
Travis Head Powers Australia to Victory
Travis Head's unbeaten 154 runs from 129 balls, including 20 fours and five sixes, helped Australia chase down the challenging target of 316 in just 44 overs. Head also became the first player to score two 150-plus scores against England in ODI format.
This victory extended Australia's winning streak in ODIs to 13 matches, and it also marked their joint fourth-highest successful run-chase in the format. Head's exceptional performance played a crucial role in Australia's success.
Jacks made a valuable contribution of 62 runs before being dismissed by Adam Zampa. Zampa, celebrating his 100th ODI, had a memorable outing, taking 3 wickets for 49 runs in 10 overs. Stand-in captain Harry Brook and Jamie Smith provided vital support with scores of 39 and 23 respectively. Young Jacob Bethell, who impressed in the T20I series, continued his good form with 35 runs, including three fours and a six.
Head's Innings Anchors Australia in big run-chase
Travis Head played a crucial role in steadying Australia's innings after an early wicket. Following Mitchell Marsh's dismissal, Head joined forces with Steve Smith, forming a partnership of 76 runs for the second wicket. After Smith's departure, Head continued his impressive form, partnering with Cameron Green for a 73-run stand. Head reached his century in 92 balls and went on to surpass the 150-run mark in 123 deliveries, providing a solid foundation for Australia's innings.
Labuschagne-Head's Crucial Partnership
Marnus Labuschagne provided valuable support to Travis Head, scoring 77 runs off 61 balls in an unbeaten 148-run partnership for the fourth wicket. This partnership was instrumental in Australia's victory. Also, Labuschagne also became the firest ever player in history with 50-plus runs, 4-plus catches and 3-plus wickets in the same ODI match.
Now, after facing a tough challenge from Australia's batting, England will be looking to bounce back in the second ODI, which will take place on September 21 at Headingley in Leeds.
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