Travis Head’s Century Powers Australia to Victory Over England in First ODI
In a thrilling showdown at Trent Bridge, Australia’s world champions secured a convincing seven-wicket win against England in the first One-Day International (ODI) on Thursday. The match saw Australia chasing down a challenging target of 315 runs with ease, finishing at 317/3 with a comfortable six overs still in hand.
Travis Head was the star of the day, smashing an impressive 154 runs off just 129 balls. His innings were packed with action, including 20 boundaries and five towering sixes. Reflecting on his performance, Head admitted, “It was tough at the start. Facing Jofra Archer is never easy—he’s one of the best, and I’ve faced him a few times. Even in the T20s in Southampton, he showed why he’s an exceptional bowler. I just focused on backing my technique and sticking it out there.”
England, batting first, posted a total of 315 all out in 49.4 overs. Ben Duckett, who was eager to score a century on his home ground, fell just short, scoring 95 before being caught and bowled by part-time leg-spinner Marnus Labuschagne. Labuschagne also sent England’s captain Harry Brook back to the pavilion after he managed 39 off 31 balls. Will Jacks added a solid 62 off 56 balls, but unfortunately, none of the other players could hit the three-figure mark.
Australia’s bowlers were on point, with Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne leading the charge, each claiming three wickets. Ben Dwarshuis, Matthew Short, and Travis Head chipped in with a wicket each, ensuring England never really got away.
Alongside Head, Marnus Labuschagne also impressed with the bat, scoring a brisk 77 off 61 balls, including seven fours and two sixes. Steven Smith and Cameron Green contributed 32 runs each, while captain Mitchell Marsh added 10 to the total.
On the English side, bowlers Matthew Potts, Jacob Bethell, and Liam Livingstone managed to take one wicket each, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Australia’s captain Mitchell Marsh praised the squad, saying, “The way we pulled it back in the field was exceptional. The calmness in the group, despite some illness going around, really showed our resilience.”
The two teams will face off again in the second ODI on Saturday at 3 pm (PST). Be sure to catch the action as the eng vs aus rivalry continues!
Also Read: England vs Pakistan Test series: UK Broadcast in Doubt