Billings ton in vain as Australia win opener

Sam Billings’s maiden England hundred was not enough as Australia closed out a 19-run victory in the 150th one-day international between the rivals – and the first since last year’s World Cup semi-final.

England won that highstakes game at a canter – romping home with 107 balls remaining en route to lifting the trophy at Lord’s – and although nine of the side which lifted the trophy at Lord’s were back together in a partial reunion, the old magic was in short supply in the Royal London series opener.

It was Australia who turned in a champion performance, recovering from early losses to post 294 for nine and holding England to 275 for nine in response.

The 29-year-old has won just 19 caps since debuting five years ago but with Eoin Morgan’s team beginning the process of moving away from past glories and towards future challenges, he looks ready to be part of the next phase. Billings made 118 in 110 balls, with 14 boundaries and two sixes, and was out to the final delivery of the match having tried to haul his team over the line.

Australia had Josh Hazlewood to thank for an imperious return of three for 26 in 10 excellent overs, with leg-spinner Adam Zampa picking up four for 55.

England looked to be in control after sending their rivals in and reducing them to 123 for five, particularly with Steve Smith missing out after being hit in the head during nets on the eve of the match.

But Mitch Marsh (73) and Glenn Maxwell (77) more than doubled their side’s score with a gamechanging partnership that left England needing a record chase at the ground.

Morgan was full of praise for Billings, saying: “Sam’s opportunities over the last four years have been extremely limited and sporadic at times. But to come in, still show hunger and desire and have his maiden oneday hundred here is outstanding. It shows a lot of resilience.”

Sam Billings