SALT SHAKER AS ENGLAND ATTACK TAKE A PEPPERING

Early run spree by Head sets up win for Australia

- Gary Fitzgerald

LIAM LIVINGSTONE'S valiant efforts with bat and ball were in vain as Australia drew first blood in the T20s.

The powerful all-rounder produced an excellent bowling display with three wickets and then struck a quick 37 in England's run-chase in Southampton.

But the home team fell 28 runs short of the 180 needed for victory. Australia's attack, led by the outstanding Josh Hazlewood (2-32) and Sean Abbott (3-28) dismissed them for 151.

Having produced a stirring fightback and restricted the Aussies to 179 - when they had threatened to rampage to well over 200 thanks to Travis Head, below England needed a strong start.