Travis Head stars with bat and ball as Australia clinches ODI series win over England

In a dramatic rain-affected finale at Bristol, Australia secured a series win against England, courtesy of a commanding all-round performance from Travis Head. Head's four-wicket haul, followed by a blistering opening partnership with Matthew Short, powered Australia to a 49-run win (DLS method) in the final fixture.

Chasing England’s total of 303, Australia raced to 165 for 2 in 20.4 overs before rain stopped play. Head and Short blazed through England’s bowling, putting together a rapid 78-run opening stand in just 7.1 overs. Head, after taking 4 wickets earlier, hit 31 off 26 balls, while Short smashed his maiden ODI fifty off just 23 balls. Even as rain threatened, Australia’s aggressive approach kept them well ahead of the par score.

England attempted to stall Australia's momentum, taking extended breaks in a bid to push the game beyond the 20th over. But it was too late, as Josh Inglis piled on quick runs to maintain Australia’s lead. When the rain became relentless, Australia were declared winners under the DLS method, securing the series 2-1.

Earlier, Ben Duckett gave England hope with a brilliant century, supported by Harry Brook’s third consecutive fifty. However, England’s middle-order collapse, triggered by Australia's spinners, left them stranded at 303. Head’s 4-wicket haul, along with contributions from Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell, restricted England’s total, which ultimately fell short.