Tense finish hides dour contest
The ECB has taken it upon itself to destroy 50-over cricket, and they really do have a point. For 92 out of 100 overs, this was as awful as any international contest can be
The ECB has taken it upon itself to destroy 50-over cricket, and they really do have a point. For 92 out of 100 overs, this was as awful as any international contest can be
Plenty of smiles from Australia, it hasn't been an easy tour for them but they take a 1-0 lead in this lengthy seven-match series...yep, folks, there are six more of these to come. Can't get enough of a good thing...erm, I might leave that one there.
For much of this game it was a subdued affair that seemed to meander along, but then it burst into life during the final 10 overs as England almost chased down 10-an-over for the last eight. Luke Wright played a fine innings, while Adil Rashid highlighted the rich future ahead of him. "They were excellent and gave us a sniff," said Andrew Strauss
However, Australia were just ahead of the game for longer periods and this was an encouraging start for a side with a few new faces in the ranks. "I felt we were 15 or so short, which was mostly my fault," says Michael Clarke with a smile. "But 260 was about par. I thought we stood up and won a very tight match. There's room for improvement."
Finally, Callum Ferguson is Man of the Match for his well-played 71. The bandwagon now moves onto Lord's for the second match on Sunday - it's a day game starting at 10.15 (9.15GMT) so set your alarm clocks. We'll have all the action for you, but for now, from Will Luke and Andrew McGlashan, it's goodnight and thanks for joining us.
So, it comes down to six off one ball...Sidebottom has never hit an international six...
How crucial will that high full toss no being called and Sidebottom's leave be in one ball time?
8 off 2 needed
What a game Rashid has had
9 from 4 needed
Nathan Bracken will bowl the last over...he's done it many times before. Where's your money? Fine leg is up, tempting
Ever since he claimed six wickets on debut for Yorkshire at Scarborough in 2006, Adil Rashid has been the coming man of English cricket
Callum Ferguson is still new to international cricket but is rapidly becoming a stable and reliable presence in Australia's changing batting line-up
Michael Clarke may be the captain in waiting, but Australia need to ensure he rediscovers his hustle at the crease before leading full-time in one-day cricket
The ECB has taken it upon itself to destroy 50-over cricket, and they really do have a point. For 92 out of 100 overs, this was as awful as any international contest can be
Andrew Strauss's first day back at the scene of his greatest triumph as England captain was spent fielding inquiries about the state of Joe Denly's knee, while defending his team against accusations of foolishness for persisting with their habit of playin