Wed Sep 25 00:38:03 UTC 2024: ## Brook’s Century Propels England to Victory Over Australia in Rain-Shortened Thriller
**Chester-le-Street, England:** Harry Brook smashed his maiden ODI century, guiding England to a thrilling 46-run (DLS) victory over Australia in the third ODI at the Riverside Ground on Sunday. The win leveled the series at 1-2, keeping England’s hopes alive for a series victory.
Australia, chasing 305 for victory, were undone by a combination of Brook’s brilliance and a rain-affected finish. After a shaky start, Australia’s innings was anchored by Steve Smith’s 60 and Alex Carey’s 77. However, a late flurry of wickets and a crucial rain delay, with England comfortably ahead of the DLS par score, handed the home side a crucial win.
Earlier, Australia, batting first, amassed a healthy total of 304 for seven. Cameron Green (42) and Glenn Maxwell (30) chipped in with useful contributions after a shaky start. Mitchell Starc, surpassing Mitchell Johnson to become Australia’s fourth-highest wicket-taker in ODIs, had initially put England in a spot of bother, reducing them to 11 for two in three overs.
However, a crucial partnership between Will Jacks (84) and Brook turned the tide in England’s favor. Jacks, playing with aggression, scored a quickfire 84 before falling to Green. Brook, though, continued his onslaught, reaching his maiden ODI century off 87 balls. The English skipper remained unbeaten on 110, hitting 13 fours and two sixes.
Liam Livingstone’s quickfire cameo of 33 runs off 22 balls further solidified England’s position. Rain intervened, though, with England needing just 51 runs from 74 balls. The DLS method confirmed their victory by 46 runs.
The victory not only leveled the series but also ended Australia’s impressive 14-match winning streak in ODIs. With two matches remaining, the series is now set for a thrilling finish.
First Piper 