Sam Billings six off Mitchell Starc: Watch Kane Richardson brings back ball from Old Trafford nets

Sam Billings six off Mitchell Starc: The Australian reserve player had to run all the way to the nets to bring back the ball at the Old Trafford.

During the third ODI of the ongoing Australia’s tour of England in Manchester, England batsman Sam Billings scored his fourth ODI half-century in a crucial 114-run partnership for the fifth wicket alongside opening batsman Jonny Bairstow (112).

Coming in to bat at No. 6 in the 19th over, Billings once again found himself in the middle with his team in trouble. Despite a set Bairstow at the non-striker’s end, it was Billings who took risks to ensure a healthy run-rate at the Old Trafford.

Arguably the best shot played by Billings had come in the 33rd over when he used the crease to hit Australia speedster Mitchell Starc for a gargantuan six over cow corner. With the ball going past the car parking area and into the practice nets, there was a slight delay before the resumption of play.

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It was at this time that reserve Australia pacer Kane Richardson ran all the way to the practice nets to fetch the ball and return it back to the players. Players running around stadiums to retrieve a cricket ball has become a norm while playing in the times of COVID-19.

Billings, who put an end to his innings with an over-ambitious reverse-sweep off Australia spinner Adam Zampa, scored a well-made 57 (58) including four fours and two sixes. After England captain Eoin Morgan won the toss and chose to bat, Bairstow registered his 10th ODI century in a series-decider match.

Sam Billings six off Mitchell Starc

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