Harry Brook shines as England crush Australia to set up ODI series decider

England captain Harry Brook expressed his confidence in his form after starring in a commanding 186-run victory over Australia at Lord's on Friday. This win levels the one-day international (ODI) series at 2-2, with the deciding match set for Sunday in Bristol.

In a rain-affected match reduced to 39 overs per side, Brook, standing in for the injured Jos Buttler, played a brilliant knock of 87 from 58 balls. This followed his maiden ODI century earlier in the week at Chester-le-Street. 

Brook was well-supported by big-hitter Liam Livingstone, who smashed an unbeaten 62 off just 27 balls, propelling England to a formidable 312-5. Livingstone's innings included four sixes in a breathtaking final over bowled by Mitchell Starc, which went for 28 runs.

Australia started their chase positively, with Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh adding 68 runs in the first nine overs. However, their innings quickly unraveled as they were bowled out for just 126 in 25 overs. Brydon Carse (3-36) and Jofra Archer (2-33) led the charge for England, with Archer bowling at speeds of up to 93 mph. 

Reflecting on his recent performances, Brook said, "It felt like only a matter of time for me. I’ve been playing well all summer; everything just needed to click. The last couple of games have been really special."

Opener Ben Duckett also contributed with a valuable 63, surviving a tough opening spell from Starc. Brook praised Livingstone's late onslaught, saying, "He was striking it unbelievably well. We all know what he's capable of doing at the back end of an innings."

Australia struggled to build momentum after the promising start, with England’s bowlers taking advantage of the helpful conditions under the floodlights. Matthew Potts rounded off a strong team performance with career-best ODI figures of 4-38, while Archer also rattled Marnus Labuschagne with a sharp delivery that struck him on the elbow.

Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh admitted his team was outplayed, stating: "Fair play to England, they put us under a lot of pressure with the bat. Liam Livingstone played a gem of an innings, and their bowlers executed well. We kept losing wickets, and that’s cricket."

With the series now tied at 2-2, the stage is set for an exciting finale in Bristol on Sunday.