Southampton – Australia secured a dominant 28-run victory over England in the first T20I of their three-match series at The Rose Bowl on September 11, 2024. A blistering knock from Travis Head and an all-around bowling performance helped Australia take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Australia batted first and posted a competitive total of 179 all out in 19.3 overs, thanks to a quickfire 59 off 23 balls from Travis Head. In response, England was bundled out for 151 in 19.2 overs, despite a fighting knock of 37 off 27 balls from Liam Livingstone.
Australia’s Innings:
Australia’s innings got off to a flying start with Matthew Short and Travis Head combining for a rapid opening partnership. Head was particularly destructive, racing to a half-century in just 19 balls. He smashed 8 fours and 4 sixes in his innings of 59, setting the tone for a high total.
England’s bowlers, however, fought back, with Liam Livingstone leading the charge by taking 3 wickets for 22 runs in his 3 overs, including the scalps of Marcus Stoinis and Tim David. Saqib Mahmood (2/21) and Jofra Archer (2/31) were also among the wickets as Australia lost momentum in the middle overs and was bowled out for 179.
Key Highlights from Australia’s Innings:
- Travis Head blazed his way to 59 off 23 balls, hitting 8 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 256.52.
- Matthew Short provided support with a valuable 41 off 26 balls.
- England’s bowlers pulled things back, with Livingstone (3/22), Mahmood (2/21), and Archer (2/31) delivering key breakthroughs.
England’s Chase:
Chasing 180, England’s innings faltered early as they lost wickets regularly. Phil Salt (20 off 12) and Will Jacks (6 off 7) were dismissed within the powerplay, putting the hosts on the back foot. Jordan Cox (17 off 12) and Liam Livingstone tried to steady the innings, but Australia’s bowlers, led by Sean Abbott (3/28) and Adam Zampa (2/20), kept the pressure on.
Despite a spirited 37 off 27 balls from Livingstone, England could not keep up with the required rate and eventually crumbled to 151 all out, falling 28 runs short.
Key Highlights from England’s Innings:
- Liam Livingstone top-scored with 37 off 27 balls, while Phil Salt contributed 20 off 12 at the top.
- Sean Abbott was the pick of the Australian bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 28 runs in his 3.2 overs.
- Adam Zampa bowled an economical spell, returning figures of 2/20 in 4 overs.
Brief Scores:
Australia: 179 all out in 19.3 overs (Travis Head 59, Matthew Short 41, Liam Livingstone 3/22)
England: 151 all out in 19.2 overs (Liam Livingstone 37, Sean Abbott 3/28, Adam Zampa 2/20)
Match Result: Australia won by 28 runs.
Player of the Match: Travis Head (Australia) – 59 off 23 balls
This victory gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next game set to take place shortly.
