Sun Sep 22 01:50:44 UTC 2024: ## Australia Cruise to 2-0 Series Lead with Dominant Win Over England

**Leeds, England:** Australia secured a comprehensive 68-run victory over England in the second ODI at Headingley on Saturday, extending their lead in the five-match series to 2-0.

The Aussies, buoyed by a late surge from Alex Carey (74), set a target of 271 after being bowled out in 45 overs. England’s top order crumbled early, losing their first five wickets for just 65 runs. Jamie Smith (49) offered some resistance, but his valiant effort was not enough to prevent England’s collapse to 202 all out in 41 overs.

Mitchell Starc (3-50) and Aaron Hardie (2-26) spearheaded the Australian attack, dismantling the English batting lineup with a combination of pace and guile. Starc particularly impressed, removing both openers, Phil Salt and Will Jacks, for ducks.

Earlier in the innings, Australia’s middle order struggled to gain momentum after a solid start from Travis Head (29) and Matt Short (29). Captain Mitchell Marsh (60) provided some stability, but the visitors lost wickets at regular intervals, thanks to the efforts of Jacob Bethell (2-33), Matthew Potts (2-30), and Brydon Carse (3-75).

Carey’s late flourish, however, proved to be decisive. He unleashed a barrage of boundaries and sixes, lifting the Australian total to a respectable 270.

England’s defeat sets up an exciting third ODI at Durham on Tuesday, where Australia will have their first chance to clinch the series. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket starting at 12pm BST.

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