Australia’s young fast bowler Mahli Beardman announced himself on the international stage with a sensational performance on his ODI debut, helping the hosts secure a convincing seven-wicket victory over England in the first match of the series at Perth Stadium on Friday, November 13.
Mahli Beardman creates history on ODI debut
Beardman made an immediate impact after Australia captain Mitchell Marsh won the toss and elected to bowl. The young pacer struck early, dismissing England captain Harry Brook for just one run before sending former skipper Joe Root back to the pavilion for 17.
His opening burst put England under serious pressure. The 21-year-old continued to trouble the visitors with his pace and bounce, claiming the wickets of Jordan Cox, Sam Curran and Liam Dawson as the English batting order collapsed.
He eventually finished with figures of 6/24, registering the best bowling figures by an Australian male cricketer on ODI debut. He also became only the second Australian to claim at least five wickets in his first ODI, following Tony Dodemaide, who took 5/21 against Sri Lanka in 1988.
Beardman’s performance was particularly impressive considering the pressure of making his international debut in front of a home crowd.
England bowled out for 131 despite late resistance
England struggled to build partnerships against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack. Tom Banton and Will Jacks scored 25 runs each, while Joe Root managed 17 before becoming one of Beardman’s victims.
The visitors were in deep trouble at 65/8, with the Australian bowlers exploiting the conditions at Perth. Gus Atkinson provided some resistance with an unbeaten 29, while Jofra Archer contributed 11.
However, Beardman returned to dismiss Archer and complete his six-wicket haul, ensuring England were bowled out for 131 in 33.4 overs. Spencer Johnson also played an important role, finishing with three wickets for 42 runs.
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Mitchell Marsh leads Australia’s comfortable chase
Chasing 132 for victory, Australia lost Travis Head early, with Gus Atkinson dismissing the opener for a first-ball duck. However, captain Mitchell Marsh took control of the innings and attacked the English bowlers.
Marsh scored a quickfire 50 off just 29 deliveries, striking four boundaries and four sixes. His aggressive approach ensured Australia remained comfortably ahead of the required run rate.
Cooper Connolly added 27 before falling to Jofra Archer, while Josh Inglis and Matt Renshaw steadied the innings. Australia reached the target with seven wickets remaining, completing the chase in just over 23.3 overs.
Mahli Beardman’s sensational debut powers Australia to a winning start in the ODI series against England 👌
📝: https://t.co/Xyx8zF5Rpm pic.twitter.com/zSyFLNhixj
— ICC (@ICC) November 13, 2026
The victory has given Australia an ideal start to the three-match ODI series against England. The second match will be played in Adelaide on November 15, followed by the final ODI in Hobart on November 18.
Beardman reacts to dream ODI debut
Speaking after his remarkable performance, Beardman admitted that the experience had been difficult to process.
“To be honest, I’m not sure what just happened. It all happened very quickly, but yeah, it’s just a great privilege and honour, to be able to represent my country and to be able to go out and take a few wickets as well. It’s just the cherry on the top,” he said.
He also identified Brook’s dismissal as a particularly special moment, explaining that taking his first international wicket helped him settle down.
“I think the first one. Harry Brook, was a nice wicket, but just to get off the mark. I think any time you get your first one, it’s a little bit of weight off the shoulders, so that was awesome,” he added.
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