England’s T20 World Cup glory was short-lived as they were thumped by Australia in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Old Trafford in Manchester. Dawid Malan’s fluent century went in vain as the hosts were bowled out for 217 in 48.3 overs.
Australia’s bowlers were on top of their game as they restricted England to a modest total. Josh Hazlewood was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 4/40 in 10 overs. He was well supported by Mitchell Starc (2/37) and Pat Cummins (2/45).
England’s innings got off to a poor start as they lost opener Jonny Bairstow for a duck in the second over. Skipper Eoin Morgan and Dawid Malan then steadied the ship with a 79-run partnership for the second wicket. Morgan was dismissed for a well-made 44 off 56 balls.
Malan then took charge of the innings and scored a brilliant century. He scored 103 off 107 balls with the help of 11 fours and a six. He was the last man to be dismissed as England were bowled out for 217 in 48.3 overs.
In reply, Australia got off to a good start as openers David Warner and Aaron Finch put on a solid partnership of 97 runs for the first wicket. Finch was the first to go for a well-made 53 off 64 balls.
Warner then took charge of the innings and scored a brilliant century. He scored 124 off 112 balls with the help of 14 fours and 3 sixes. He was well supported by Steve Smith (45) and Marnus Labuschagne (41).
Australia chased down the target with ease in the 37th over and won the match by 8 wickets. Warner was adjudged the Man of the Match for his brilliant century.
The second ODI of the three-match series will be played at the same venue on Sunday. England will have to come up with a better performance if they are to level the series.