Harry Brook Shines as England Defeat Australia in Rain-Interrupted ODI at Durham

England clinched a 46-run victory over Australia in the third One Day International (ODI) at Chester-le-Street, aided by Harry Brook‘s brilliant unbeaten century amid rain disruptions. The win keeps the five-match series alive with Australia leading 2-1. The fourth ODI is scheduled at Lord's, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket beginning at 12 pm on September 27th.

Harry Brook’s performance was the highlight, as he marked his maiden ODI century with a score of 110 not out from 94 balls. This inning included 15 boundaries, guiding England to a successful chase after a shaky start where the team was reduced to 11-2 within the opening overs.

Will Jacks also played a significant role, scoring 84 off 82 deliveries and partnering with Brook for a crucial 156-run stand for the third wicket. The pair dominated an Australian bowling attack that lacked the services of leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who was sidelined due to illness.

Initially, Australia set a target of 305 after posting 304-7 in their 50 overs. Alex Carey top-scored with an unbeaten 77, while Steve Smith contributed 60. England’s bowlers, including Jofra Archer who took 2-67, struggled to capitalize on early breakthroughs in supportive conditions.

Cameron Green managed to dismiss both Jacks and Jamie Smith in quick succession, bringing the focus back on England’s chase. However, Liam Livingstone‘s brisk 30 not out ensured England remained in control before rain halted play.

Ahead of the match, Brook had elected to bowl first, banking on favorable conditions for his seamers. England did manage early wickets, with Matthew Short falling to Archer and Brydon Carse dismissing Mitchell Marsh. Nonetheless, Australia recovered with significant contributions from Smith, Green, and Carey.

The game experienced a dramatic end as rain intervened, leading to a Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method (DLS) calculation that confirmed England’s victory. This match not only marked England’s first ODI win since December but also ended Australia’s dominant 14-game winning streak.

England captain Harry Brook expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “It was nice to get the first [hundred] on the board. Hopefully, there’s plenty more to come.” Brook emphasized a fearless batting approach that paid off in this high-stakes match.

The series attention now shifts to Lord’s for the fourth ODI, where England will aim to level the series against a robust Australian squad.