In a thrilling fourth ODI between England and Australia at Lord’s, Liam Livingstone delivered a sensational performance, reminding the cricket world why he is considered one of the most dangerous finishers in limited-overs cricket. Livingstone’s explosive batting display was the highlight of the match, where he hammered Australian pacer Mitchell Starc for 28 runs in a single over. This relentless onslaught helped England clinch a massive 186-run victory, leveling the five-match series at 2-2.
The Match Setup
England, having lost the toss, were put in to bat under overcast conditions. The game was reduced to 39 overs per side due to rain delays, setting the stage for an aggressive batting display. Ben Duckett (63) and Harry Brook (87) laid the foundation for England’s innings, both contributing heavily to the scoreboard. However, it was Livingstone’s fireworks at the back end that propelled England to a commanding total of 312/5 in their allotted 39 overs.
Livingstone’s knock of 62* from just 27 balls was laced with three boundaries and seven towering sixes, four of which came in the 38th over bowled by Starc. With just one over to go in England’s innings, the pressure was on the experienced Australian left-arm quick, but Livingstone showed no mercy, launching a brutal attack. Starc’s over read: 6, 0, 6, 6, 6, 4, as the England batter plundered 28 runs, marking it as one of the most expensive overs ever bowled by an Australian in ODI history.
Starc’s Nightmare Over
Mitchell Starc, known for his lethal pace and swing, was rendered helpless against Livingstone’s audacious hitting. Despite being one of the world’s premier fast bowlers, Starc’s figures in this game were dismal, conceding 70 runs in his eight overs without taking a wicket. His final over will go down in history as one of the most expensive in ODI cricket, demonstrating how even the best can falter under pressure.
Livingstone’s heroics were not just about individual glory; they played a crucial role in pushing England’s total well beyond Australia’s reach. This late assault shifted the momentum entirely in England’s favor, making the daunting task of chasing 313 even more difficult for the Australians.
England’s Dominance with the Ball
Australia’s chase got off to a rocky start and never really took off. They were bundled out for a paltry 126 in just 24.4 overs. Travis Head’s 34 was the only bright spot in an otherwise dismal batting performance by the visitors. England’s bowlers, led by Matthew Potts (4/38) and Brydon Carse (3/36), tore through the Australian batting lineup, leaving them in tatters.
The comprehensive win by 186 runs was not only a statement of England’s strength at home but also a reminder of their resilience in the series. After losing two of the first three ODIs, this victory ensured that the series would go down to the wire, with the final and deciding match set to be played in Bristol.
Livingstone: The Game Changer
Liam Livingstone’s role as a finisher for England has grown exponentially in recent years. His ability to hit massive sixes and accelerate the run rate in the final overs has made him a key player in England’s white-ball setup. His fearless approach, combined with raw power, makes him one of the most exciting players to watch in modern cricket.
This innings against Australia is yet another testament to Livingstone’s match-winning capabilities. His 62* came at a strike rate of 229.62, a testament to his aggressive mindset and ability to dismantle even the best bowlers in world cricket.
Looking Ahead
As the series now stands tied at 2-2, both teams will be gearing up for the final showdown. Australia will be looking to regroup after this crushing defeat, while England will carry the momentum into the final ODI, buoyed by Livingstone’s heroics and their bowlers’ dominant display.
For Mitchell Starc, this game will serve as a tough lesson. Even the most seasoned bowlers can have an off day, especially in a format as unpredictable as ODI cricket. But for Liam Livingstone and England, this match will be remembered as one of their most commanding performances, with the memory of that brutal over etched into cricket history.