Australia secured a commanding 68-run victory over England in the second ODI at Headingley, taking a 2-0 lead in the series. Mitchell Starc's exquisite inswinging yorker to dismiss England captain Harry Brook set the tone early on, as Australia's bowling attack proved too much for the hosts. Alex Carey's impressive 74-run contribution helped Australia set a target of 271, despite a mid-innings scare.
England struggled in their chase, losing wickets at regular intervals, with key performances from Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, and Josh Hazlewood sealing the win for Australia.In the first innings, Australia faced some early challenges but managed to build a competitive total, thanks to Mitchell Marsh's fifty and Marnus Labuschagne's resilience. Adil Rashid claimed his 200th ODI wicket during a spell of sharp spin bowling, while England's bowlers showed moments of brilliance, notably Olly Stone's impressive return. However, it was Australia's all-round performance that proved decisive, with Carey and Hardie's crucial partnership showcasing their depth.
England's batting woes continued as they struggled to handle Australia's bowling attack, ultimately falling short of the target. The series now poses a significant challenge for England as they aim to bounce back in the remaining matches. Australia's strong start, fueled by key players' return from illness, sets the stage for an exciting ODI series with both teams showcasing their talent and determination on the field.