If this ODI seemed a match too far, in a series too many, a month too late, then no one told the Headingley faithful on Saturday morning. They squashed on to trains to Burley Park and into the ungainly stands, a sell-out crowd roasting in the unexpected September heat on the Western Terrace’s open seats. They were in enthusiastic voice too – at least for the first few hours until the game swung.
With gallows enthusiasm, most stayed for England’s innings, a start-stop affair in light that faded alongside their chances, as Harry Brook’s inexperienced 50-over side were walloped by 68 runs. Australia reaped the reward of Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc’s return to go 2-0 up in the five-match series.
