Australia’s young fast bowler Mahli Beardman made an unforgettable start to his ODI career, producing a stunning five-wicket spell against England in the first match of the series in Perth on Friday.

The 21-year-old picked up five wickets in his opening five overs, leaving England’s batting line-up in deep trouble on a lively Optus Stadium pitch.

Beardman became only the second Australian bowler to claim a five-wicket haul on his men’s ODI debut.
His impressive figures of 5/16 put the hosts firmly in control during the opening stages of the match.

The right-arm pacer removed England’s key middle-order batters, including captain Harry Brook and experienced batter Joe Root. His first three wickets came through catches behind the stumps by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, before further catches at fine leg and in the gully completed his five-wicket haul.

England were left struggling at 76/8 after 22 overs as Australia’s pace attack dominated proceedings.
Spencer Johnson and Xavier Bartlett also made important contributions with the ball.