Steve Smith’s return to form was the headline news from the second ODI as Australia clinched the series. Dual world champions England need to find a response even if they cannot win the series.
Australia vs England | 22 November 2022 | MCG | 05:20
To Win Match
Australia 57/100 | Tie 25/1 | England 14/10
Australia have looked good in the ODI format after a disappointing T20 World Cup.
Steve Smith’s match-turning innings in the second match was a big boost to a middle order that hasn’t been at its most stable recently.
The bowling from Australia has been brilliant with Mitchell Starc leading the way and being able to get among the wickets early.
The work of the pacemen has made it easier for Adam Zampa to run through hobbled opponents.
England haven’t hit their straps just yet, even if Dawid Malan has looked the best batter from either side during his hundred in the series opener.
Malan and Jason Roy’s early wickets left England behind the game during their chase, and they would fall well short in the end.
The finishers in the England team couldn’t get the job done in trying to take on Zampa, which cost them last time out.
A return to the scene of their great jubilation not too long ago may reinvigorate England, though even if no trophy is on the line this time.
Australia are tipped to complete the whitewash against a frazzled English outfit.
