Jofra Archer has continued his sensational start to international cricket, taking six wickets as England ended a sequence of one-day international defeats with a comprehensive victory over Australia at Old Trafford.
The Barbados-born fast bowler, who made his debut for England in May, was the star of the show as the hosts won by 12 runs to level the five-match series at 1-1.
Archer, who has been tipped to become one of the world’s best bowlers, finished with figures of 6-45 from his 10 overs, the best by an England bowler in a one-day international since Chris Woakes took 6-45 against New Zealand in 2015.
The 24-year-old, who has been tipped to become the fastest bowler in the world, was at his devastating best as he ripped through the Australian batting line-up.
He dismissed David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey and Nathan Lyon in quick succession to leave the tourists reeling at 97-7.
Archer’s performance was all the more impressive given that he had been struggling with a side strain in the build-up to the match.
The victory was a welcome relief for England, who had lost their previous four one-day internationals against Pakistan and Australia.
It was also a much-needed boost for captain Eoin Morgan, who had come under pressure after a run of poor results.
Morgan praised Archer for his performance, saying: “He’s been outstanding. He’s been a breath of fresh air for us. He’s come in and taken wickets and put pressure on the opposition.
“He’s been a real asset for us and he’s been a real leader in the dressing room as well. He’s been a great addition to the team.”
The victory was also a boost for England’s World Cup preparations, with the tournament just over a month away.
England will now look to build on the victory in the remaining three matches of the series, with the next match taking place at Edgbaston on Tuesday.
If Archer can continue his impressive form, then England will be confident of securing a series victory and building momentum ahead of the World Cup.
