Bethell bats well as England level T20 series

After going for just two runs on his T20 international debut Wednesday, Barbados-born Jacob Bethell came through in his sophomore effort, hitting a rapidfire 44 to help England even their three-match series against Australia at one apiece.

The 20-year-old allrounder added 90 alongside Liam Livingstone, who was celebrating his 50th T20I, as England chased 194 to win. And Livingstone celebrated in style, stroking 87 from 47 balls in a three-wicket win for the Three Lions at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Livingstone’s knock, his second 50 in this format, included six fours and five sixes.

Bethell smashed Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa for 20 in an over during a brilliant knock of 44 from 24 balls.

Bethell’s dismissal gave the visitors a glimmer of hope, as they sought an outright series win with a game to spare. But Livingstone maintained the momentum, yielding only when the game was finally well in hand for the English.

Earlier, Jake Fraser-McGurk had his maiden international half-century for Australia, an even 50 off 31 balls. Josh Inglis contributed 42 from 26, with the Aussies getting to 193-6 from their 20 overs. Livingstone got his day underway with the ball, taking 2-16.

England’s run chase was tied for the biggest target attained at this venue. It also set a new T20 international record. The decisive rubber will be played on Sunday at Old Trafford.

SUMMARY:

Australia 193-6 (20 overs): Fraser-McGurk 50 (31), Inglis 42 (26); Livingstone 2-16

England 194-7 (19 overs): Livingstone 87 (47), Bethell 44 (24); Short 5-22

England win by three wickets; series level at 1-1

(TF)