Saturday, November 16, 2024 05:59 PM
Liam Livingstone makes history by scoring 28 runs off Mitchell Starc in a thrilling ODI over.
LONDON: In a thrilling display of power hitting, England’s middle-order batter Liam Livingstone made headlines on Friday by smashing Australia’s Mitchell Starc for a record-breaking 28 runs in a single over during the rain-affected fourth ODI. This remarkable feat took place in the 39th over of England’s innings, where they were positioned at 284 runs for the loss of five wickets, desperately seeking to cross the 300-run mark.
The over began with Starc attempting to deliver a yorker just outside the off stump. However, the ball fell short, allowing Livingstone to unleash his strength and send the ball soaring for a gigantic six over long-on. Starc, not one to back down easily, responded with a slower bouncer, which momentarily deceived Livingstone. Yet, the left-arm pacer’s next attempt at a yorker went awry, and Livingstone capitalized by flicking the ball over the square-leg boundary for another six.
As the over progressed, it became evident that the relentless assault was taking its toll on Starc. He bowled a wide full-toss, which Livingstone treated with the same disdain, sending it flying for yet another six. After being hit for three sixes in the first four deliveries, Starc attempted to change his strategy. He bowled a pacy length delivery angling outside off, but Livingstone, riding the wave of momentum, managed to drag it over the cow corner for yet another massive six.
In a final effort to regain control, Starc executed a wide yorker on the last delivery of the over. However, even this was not enough to escape the onslaught, as Livingstone skillfully slashed it for a four over point. This over not only showcased Livingstone's explosive batting skills but also highlighted the challenges bowlers face when confronted with a batter in such fine form.
Livingstone's remarkable performance serves as a reminder of the excitement and unpredictability of cricket. It underscores the fact that in this sport, a single over can change the course of a match, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. As cricket enthusiasts, we can only hope to witness more such exhilarating moments that make the game so captivating.