Put in to bat first, the hosts recorded their highest-ever first innings total in men’s ODI as they scored 355/5 before bundling out Jos Buttler’s side for a mere 142.
David Warner and Travis Head were the main highlights in the contest. The pair recorded the highest stand for any wicket in ODIs at the MCG. They formed a breathtaking opening partnership of 369 runs in 38.1 overs, with both hitting centuries. While Head made 152 runs off 130 balls (16 fours and 4 sixes), Warner scored 106 runs off 102 deliveries with the help of 8 fours and 2 maximums.
Apart from the duo, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh also grabbed eyeballs during his relatively short stay in the middle. Marsh smashed a couple of sixes during his 16-ball 30, and one of his shots covered a distance of 115 metres.
It all happened in the 48th over of the first innings. England pacer Olly Stone bowled a short of a length ball, while Marsh stayed deep in the crease before clouting the white leather over deep mid-wicket for a humongous six.
Here is the video:
Warner, who finished the series with 208 runs at an average of 69.33 and a strike rate of 102.46, was named for the ‘Player of the Series’ award. The Paddington-born also spoke about his captaincy ban and said if it gets overturned, he will be happy to help youngsters and prepare them for the international matches.
“This is very special, this is for the team. We played some outstanding cricket. Bowlers did a fantastic job, and the batters just executed as well as we could. 2024 is a long time away, with a lot of cricket to be played across all formats. If I’m keeping myself fit and scoring runs, I might be in (for the next ODI on Australian soil). I think we got a fine man here (Cummins) for the captaincy. Just looking to contribute what I can to the team. If I can overturn that (ban) some way, maybe captain a Big Bash team, I’d love to help the younger generation to come up the ranks,” said Warner at the post-match presentation.
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