Rain and Australia's explosive batting display resulted in England's 49-run defeat via DLS method in the final ODI match as Kangaroos took away the five-match series 3-2 at the Bristol's Seat Unique stadium on September 29. England had fought back from a 2-0 deficit to level the series at 2-2, making the fifth match a crucial decider.
Ben Duckett's ton goes in vain as Australia win 5th ODI via DLS and clinch series 3-2
Ben Duckett played a crucial role for England, scoring 107 runs in a brilliant innings. With contributions from Phil Salt (45) and Harry Brook (72), England were well-positioned at 202-2. However, they collapsed later in the innings, losing their last eight wickets for 107 runs.
England's batting lineup struggled, with Will Jacks and Liam Livingstone both dismissed for ducks. Other batsmen, including Jamie Smith, Matthew Potts, Brydon Carse, and Olly Stone, failed to reach double figures. With rain threatening, England's total of 309 runs seemed insufficient.
In response, Australia's Matt Short, Travis Head, Steve Smith, and Josh Inglis made significant contributions to their total, giving Australia a comfortable lead according to the DLS method before the rain arrived.
Despite an under-par total, Australia dominated England, attacking from the start with a focus on reaching the DLS par score. Matthew Short led the way with a quick-fire 58-run innings, his first ODI half-century. Head, Steve Smith, and Josh Inglis also made valuable contributions, with the last two remaining unbeaten. To ensure a result, England needed at least 20 overs to be bowled. However, rain interrupted the match after 20.4 overs. Australia successfully reached the 20-over mark, securing a series win. Despite several inspections, the ODI match was eventually abandoned. Australia was declared the winner by 49 runs through the DLS method, securing a 3-2 victory in the five-match series. This victory marks Australia's third consecutive ODI series win over England, a streak that began during the 2019 Cricket World Cup. England's next cricket assignment will be in the following month when they tour Pakistan for a three-match Test series.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Ajay Jadeja announces his 4 retentions for Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction
