Travis Head after scoring a tonne in the opening England ODI, “I’ve worked extremely hard and it’s coming off in my playing”

Australia managed to topple England in the first ODI of the ongoing series. Both sides faced off for the first ODI at Trent Bridge on Thursday, September 19, and the clash saw England come in to bat first. The side put in an excellent performance with the bat, posting a total of 315 runs in the first innings of the game.

But, it was Travis Head‘s spectacular knock that enabled the visitors to secure an outstanding victory as Australia launched a charge to reach the target. After Travis Head opened the innings for the men in yellow, they chased down 315 runs in 44 overs, winning the match by seven wickets. Head finished with 154* runs in 129 deliveries.

Head received Player of the Match recognition for his outstanding effort. When he accepted the trophy, Australia’s best batter spoke about their performance and how they overcame a difficult beginning to the run chase to win it.

Jofra [Archer] bowled a fantastic spell at the beginning, which was fortunate for me. This is a terrific wicket, so I’m glad I can keep on. While the start was difficult, I felt we did a wonderful job getting it to 315, and we did a great job surviving. We played really well. I like playing for the boys, and the environment is terrific. At the post-game award ceremony, Head stated, “I’ve worked incredibly hard, and it’s showing in my playing.”

I’ve been reluctant to bowl: Travis Head

Not to mention, during the game’s opening innings, Head was also brought out to bowl. He got two wickets in 4.4 overs, dismissing Adil Rashid and Jacob Bethell, while conceding 34 runs. In an interview following the match, Head mentioned that he had never bowled before but felt fortunate to have had the opportunity to practise with Daniel Vettori.

Also Read: England won the toss and batted first in the first ODI against Australia

“I have been hesitant to bowl in the past few months, but I was fortunate to roll my arm over a few times with Daniel Vettori and it turned out okay. I will put bowling on the rack for a while,” Head stated at the press conference held after the game.