England, chasing 240, were in trouble at 109 for three. But Eoin Morgan, who had rescued England from the depths of 97 for four with an unbeaten century in their series-opening win, made an accomplished 52.
Broad, playing in this series after being rested from England’s 2-0 home Test series win over Bangladesh, said, “It’s great to be back playing and be involved in this changing room. Everyone is seeking constant improvement. I feel in pretty good shape after three-and-a half-weeks’ work in the gym.”
Ultimately, an Australia attack lacking injured quicks Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus was unable to defend a below-par total of 239 for seven.
But that owed much to the accuracy of England’s bowlers with paceman Broad taking four wickets for 44 runs from his 10 overs, including his 100th at this level. All-rounder Luke Wright weighed in with one for 38 off nine while left-arm spinner Michael Yardy’s eight overs cost just 31 runs as Australia’s run-rate slowed in the middle overs. “It was pretty much a mirror image of the last game,” said Australia captain Ricky Ponting. “We just didn’t get enough runs after winning the toss. We need guys like me and the top order to get more runs,” the star batsman added. But you’ve got to give England some credit.”
The series continues at Old Trafford tomorrow.
Published in the Express Tribune, June26th, 2010
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