England’s World Cup hangover has worsened after they suffered a 72-run defeat to Australia in the second ODI in Sydney.
The loss was England’s fourth in five matches since their World Cup triumph in July, and it leaves them 2-0 down in the five-match series.
Australia batted first and posted a total of 294-9, with Steve Smith top-scoring with a brilliant century.
In reply, England were bowled out for 222, with only Joe Root (50) and Ben Stokes (45) making any real contribution with the bat.
The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for England, who had been hoping to build on their World Cup success with a series win in Australia.
However, they have been outplayed in all departments so far, with the batting, bowling and fielding all coming up short.
The batting has been particularly disappointing, with the top order failing to fire in both matches.
The bowlers have also been off the pace, with the spinners in particular struggling to make an impact.
England now have three matches to turn things around, starting with the third ODI in Hobart on Sunday.
They will need to find a way to get back to winning ways if they are to have any chance of salvaging the series.
It won’t be easy, but England have the talent and experience to turn things around.
They will need to show more fight and determination if they are to stand any chance of winning the series.
The next three matches will be a test of England’s character and resolve, and it will be fascinating to see how they respond.
