David Warner and Travis Head combined to break a 19-year record as Australia thrashed England in a 221-run win to secure a one-day series whitewash on Tuesday.
Warner and Head joined forces for 269 runs to beat the highest ODI partnership by an Australian pair at the MCG, eclipsing the 225 posted by Adam Gilchrist and Ricky Ponting against England in December 2002.
As Warner scored his first international century since January 2020, Head struck his third ODI ton to reinforce his bid to open in next year’s 50-over World Cup in India.
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Warner compiled 106 runs from 102 balls, including eight fours and two sixes, and Head pummelled 152 from 130, chalking up 16 fours and four sixes on the way.
Head’s hundred was his first since the birth of his baby daughter in September — and he celebrated fittingly, rocking his Gray-Nicolls bat like a newborn.
“Celebrates in fine style!” said Fox Cricket commentator Mark Howard.
Head was relieved to have reached triple figures when he spoke to Fox Cricket after the match.
“Haven’t got many runs since she’s been born, so nice to contribute, and yeah, nice to be batting with Davey,” Head said.
“Obviously our partnership’s been nice so far. He’s looked after us and hopefully many more to continue.”
Australia made 5-355 but a rain delay meant England was set 364 to win.
The visitors were rolled for 142 in 31.4 overs, Jason Roy top-scoring with 33.
Warner breaks century drought in style
A rotten dose of luck for James Vince, who was twice struck in the groin by Josh Hazlewood, rubbed salt in England’s wounds.
A combination of the destruction inflicted by Warner and Head, England’s T20 World Cup hangover and a woeful crowd attendance meant the game felt no more competitive than a joint nets session.
But such is the nature of world cricket’s schedule that few days pass by without a match being played.
Australia defeated England by six wickets in the first ODI of the series, 72 runs in the second match and 221 runs on Tuesday.
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