Harry Brook rues poor powerplay as England lose 2nd ODI: Early wickets killed us

ENG vs AUS: Harry Brook said that England lost their way in the run-chase against Australia in Leeds after losing five wickets inside the powerplay.

In Short

• England lost 5 wickets in the powerplay in Leeds
• England lost the 2nd ODI by 68 runs at Headingley
• England also went 2-0 down in the series

Harry Brook said that poor batting in the powerplay led to England’s downfall in the second ODI against Australia. On Saturday, September 21, the Three Lions lost by 68 runs at the Headingley in Leeds to go 2-0 down in the five-match series. After being asked to chase down 271, England found themselves tottering at 65 for five in 9.2 overs.

Although Jamie Smith, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse made useful contributions with the bat, their efforts were not enough to take England even close to Australia’s total. Brook, meanwhile, credited the bowlers for keeping the Australian batters in check.

ENG vs AUS, 2nd ODI Highlights

"We bowled nicely, to restrict them to 270, we did a good job. Obviously, we lost early wickets in the powerplay and that killed us. Took positive options to put the pressure on but didn't come off,” Brook said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

After England reduced their opponents to 221 for nine, Alex Carey and Josh Hazlewood’s partnership frustrated them. While Hazlewood held one end up, Carey, who won the Player of the Match award, scored 74 off 67 with eight fours and three sixes.

It's about patience

Brook said that the Three Lions planned to keep Hazlewood on strike, but could not execute their plans properly. “Set batter, want to get the No.11 on strike. Didn't think I could have done much different,” Brook said.

In Jos Buttler’s absence, Brook has had a tough time as the English stand-in skipper. The youngster said that with England having a new-look team, patience is needed for the team to grow.

“We're a young side, Rash is the highest run-scorer in ODI cricket for us. Inexperienced team playing against one of the best sides in the world - it's about patience, we're only two games in,” Brook added.

The Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street will host the third ODI on Tuesday, September 24.