Injuries and illness rock Australia's camp ahead of final ODI against England, confirms Travis Head

Australia’s ongoing five-match ODI series against England has taken a dramatic turn as the illness has swept through the touring camp ahead of the series-deciding fifth and final ODI, which is set to be held at the Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol on Sunday, September 29.

The star performers of Australia, including Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood, and Adam Zampa, led the tourists to be in a precarious position going into the ODI series decider.

The Australia cricket team had won the first two ODIs and were well set for an early series triumph, but they lost the momentum and suffered a 46-run defeat in the third game against England via the DLS method.

Illness hits Australia before the ODI series decider against England

Things turned out worst for them in the fourth ODI at Lord’s, where England crushed Australia by 186 runs. In a rain-affected 39-over match, Australia’s batting order was crushed for a dismal 126 runs, allowing England to level the ongoing five-match ODI series and set up a thrilling decider.

Amid Australia's struggles, Travis Head has remained optimistic about his team’s chances. After missing the third ODI, Head (34) returned at Lord’s and gave the team a promising start, sharing a 68-run opening stand with Mitchell Marsh (28).

But as the middle order faltered, Head’s efforts couldn’t prevent another disappointing result for Australia against England. With the ongoing ODI series now tied at 2-2, Head has expressed his determination to step up in the final match and bring home the win for Australia.

The explosive opener admitted that the illness outbreak has cast a shadow over the team’s preparations, with several top players sidelined. Cameron Green’s departure from the tour due to injury has further worsened the team’s woes. Despite these setbacks, the Aussies are hopeful of a strong finish.

Travis Head determined to lead Australia to victory amid illness crisis

Head, determined to carry his good form into the final match, is confident in his ability to make a big impact. As the illness continues to plague their camp, Australia will need all their remaining firepower to fend off a resurgent England side that’s riding high after their back-to-back wins.

Travis Head was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald: “It would’ve been nice to hit a few more, but I felt like I’m hitting the ball nicely; I could just do it for longer. A couple of the boys have been crooks, and it hasn’t been ideal. Personally, I’m hoping to go out with a bang in a couple of days.”

Head further said at the press conference: “Greeny’s gone home... I found out as we were getting on the team bus. I’ve got my phone back now, and I’ll reach out to him, obviously disappointing for him, but he’ll go home and get things sorted. He’s been through these things before, Cam; it’s disappointing, but he’ll know the way to get back.”