England pacer Matthew Potts delivered a crucial breakthrough in the second ODI against Australia at Headingley on September 21, 2024, clean bowling Steve Smith for just four runs. Potts, who has been impressive with his swing and seam movement, sent down an inswinger that uprooted Smith’s off-stump in the 14th over of Australia’s innings. The delivery swung back sharply, leaving the former Australian captain unable to connect, as he attempted an expansive drive.
Potts’ dismissal of Smith was celebrated with enthusiasm as it gave England the upper hand early in the contest. Smith had managed only one boundary before his departure, in stark contrast to his performance in the first ODI, where he scored a brisk 32 off 28 balls, hitting three sixes.
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Smith’s First ODI Performance and Australia’s Recent ODI Campaign
In the first ODI at Trent Bridge, Smith looked in excellent touch before being dismissed by Liam Livingstone. However, Australia’s chase was driven by Travis Head’s magnificent unbeaten 154* and Marnus Labuschagne’s 77, leading the visitors to a comfortable seven-wicket victory while chasing 317. Head’s spectacular knock earned him the Player of the Match award.
As the second ODI progressed, Australia’s batting lineup faced difficulties. Travis Head, who had been in fine form, was dismissed for 29, matching his opening partner Matt Short’s score. England, having won the toss and opted to bowl, made one change to their lineup, bringing in Olly Stone for Jofra Archer, while Australia made three changes, including the return of Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood.
With three more ODIs remaining in the series, to be played at Chester-Le-Street, Lord’s, and Bristol, both teams will look to fine-tune their strategies as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. The rivalry between England and Australia remains fierce, having split their three-game T20I series earlier, with the final match ending in a washout.
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