Trent Bridge, Sept 20: Travis Head struck a career-best 154 not out as injury-hit world champions Australia thrashed England by seven wickets in the first one-day international at Trent Bridge on Thursday. Australia, set 316 for victory, finished on 317-3 with six overs to spare as they went 1-0 up in a five-match series. Marnus Labuschagne was 77 not out after adding an unbroken 148 with opening batsman Head in just under 18 overs. Earlier, part-time leg-spinner Labuschagne took 3-39, including dismissing opener Ben Duckett for 95, as England were bowled out for 315. The series continues at Headingley on Saturday.Aussie skipper said, Mitch Marsh: Very happy, great win. Especially after England got a great start and we pulled them back in.(On Labuschagne bowling) I’d love to take credit but it was a forced change. And the longer the innings went, we felt pace off was the way to go for us. I think the calmness within the group was great to see, we have a few young guys out here. There is a bit of illness going around in the camp as well. We have a lot of trust in the people out here, hope we can keep winning.
Harry Brook, said, We did everything we wanted to do. We scored quickly and tried to take wickets, but not our day today. We were eyeing a big score, but it was difficult against the spinners. We didn’t rotate strike as well and ended up getting a below par score. (Duckett and Jacks) Them two played very well, I felt good too. Rash and a few other boys bowled nicely as well, those are the positives for us. Hopefully, we can build on this and keep the momentum going.
Travis Head, Player of the Match, said (Is batting too easy for him?) It’s never the case, got a bit lucky at the start. Jofra bowled a hell of a spell but when you can get through it, there are runs on offer, especially on this outfield and pitch. We did well to keep it at 315, used different people. Then to survive the early spell from Jofra and build some partnerships was great. The environment is great, and having a clear blueprint and role in the team. I try to enjoy what I’m doing and it is coming off for me.