Banton, Atkinson star as England thump Australia in 2nd ODI to force decider

详细摘要

England bounced back from their Perth humiliation with a commanding 135-run win over Australia in the second ODI in Adelaide. Tom Banton's century and Gus Atkinson's four-wicket haul helped the visitors level the series and force a decider.

England bounced back in emphatic fashion after their disastrous showing in Perth, producing an all-round performance to beat Australia by 135 runs in the second ODI in Adelaide. A commanding batting display, followed by a ruthless spell from their bowlers, helped the visitors level the series and set up a winner-takes-all decider.

The turnaround was particularly impressive given England had managed just 131 in the opening match. This time, they put the Australian attack under pressure from the outset and finished with a formidable 355 for 6. Tom Banton led the charge with a brilliant 121 off 99 deliveries, while Joe Root's 62 provided the foundation for the innings. Jordan Cox and Will Jacks then took over in the closing stages, adding valuable half-centuries to push England well beyond the 350-run mark.

Australia's pursuit never really got going. Gus Atkinson ripped through the top order, leaving the hosts struggling at 29 for 4 inside the first seven overs. His early strikes removed Travis Head, Cooper Connolly and Josh Inglis, putting England firmly in control of the contest. The Australian batters were also let down by their inability to counter England's disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.

Cameron Green and Matt Renshaw offered some resistance after the early collapse, combining for a 98-run stand for the fifth wicket. However, with the required rate climbing and four wickets already down, Australia had an enormous task ahead of them. Their partnership provided some temporary relief but never seriously threatened to turn the game around.

Liam Dawson eventually ended Renshaw's resistance, trapping him in front for 63. The left-arm spinner then accounted for Green, with Cox completing a smart stumping to leave Australia further adrift. Dawson picked up another wicket as England continued to tighten their grip, while Atkinson returned to remove Adam Zampa and complete an outstanding four-wicket haul.

The hosts' last pair, Riley Meredith and Spencer Johnson…

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