England are brought back down to earth by Australia as the Baggy Greens prevail by six wickets in the first one-day international in Adelaide.
Just four days ago, England were celebrating an historic T20 World Cup win, securing another trophy to go alongside their status as champions in the 50-over format.
However, Jos Buttler's side were well beaten in Adelaide, the contest only remaining competitive due to Dawid Malan's magnificent 134 in response to his teammates falling at regular intervals.
Unsurprisingly, England made widespread changes from Sunday's success over Pakistan in Melbourne with only Buttler and Chris Jordan remaining in the team.
Jason Roy, who had been dropped for the shorter format, was dismissed for just six, and Buttler top-scored with 29 out of the top six when taking Malan out of the equation.
Malan, in truth, was in a league of his own after missing two matches with a groin injury, hitting 12 fours and four maximums to take England from 118-5 to 287-9 from their 50 overs.
Steve Smith looks to be creeping back to his best...
— Cricket on BT Sport (@btsportcricket) November 17, 2022
A busy 50 as Australia move closer to victory.#AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/uznA9R2CMD
David Willey also contributed 34 from 40 at the back end of the innings, keeping his side in the match, but Australia soon ensured that their reply would be one-sided.
David Warner and Travis Head put on 147 for the opening wicket in just 19.4 overs before Head went for 69, and the hosts required only 88 from 21.3 overs when Warner departed for an 84-ball knock of 86.
In comparison to their previous rate, Australia begun to stutter, but Steven Smith showcased his trademark composure to ensure that there was never any danger of his side suffering what would have been a calamitous defeat.
Smith ended unbeaten with 80 from 78 balls, hitting a six to seal victory, while Cameron Green kept things ticking over with 20 from 28 deliveries to reach their target with 19 balls remaining.
