Australia’s ongoing five-match ODI series against England has taken a dramatic turn as the disease has spread through the touring camp ahead of the series-deciding fifth and final ODI, which will take place at the Seat Unique Stadium from Bristol on Sunday. September 29.

Australia’s star performers including Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa put the tourists in a precarious position ahead of the ODI series decider.

The Australian cricket team had won the first two ODIs and was well set for an early win in the series, but lost momentum and suffered a 46-run defeat in the third game against England through the DLS method.

Illness hits Australia ahead of ODI series decider against England

Things went worse 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 by a dismal 126 runs, allowing England to level the ongoing five-match ODI series and set up a thrilling decider.

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

But when the middle order faltered, Head’s efforts could not prevent another disappointing result for Australia against England. With the ongoing ODI series now tied 2-2, Head has expressed his determination to step up in the final match and take home the victory for Australia.

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

Travis Head determined to lead Australia to victory amid disease crisis

Head, determined to maintain his good form until the final match, is confident in his ability to make a big impact. As illness continues to plague their camp, Australia will need all their remaining firepower to fend off a resurgent England who are riding high after their back-to-back victories.

Travis Head was quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald: “It would have been nice to hit a few more, but I felt I was hitting the ball well; I could do it for longer. A couple of kids have been delinquents and it hasn’t been ideal. Personally, I hope to come out strong in a couple of days.”

Head further said at the press conference: “Greeny went home… I found out when we were getting on the team bus. I already got my phone back and will contact him, which will obviously be disappointing for him, but he will go home and sort things out. He’s been through these things before, Cam; “It’s disappointing, but he will know how to come back.”