England wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton struck a commanding 121 off 99 balls — laced with 12 fours and four sixes — to anchor England's highest-ever ODI total in Australia of 355/6, powering them to a 135-run victory over Australia in the second ODI at the Adelaide Oval on 15 November 2026. The result levels the series at 1-1, with Banton walking away with the Player of the Match award and a renewed case for a permanent berth at the top of England's batting order.

Banton's Knock in Context

Banton's innings gave England the platform they needed to post a daunting total on a surface where the square boundaries, by his own admission, played into his hands. 'The square boundaries here are a bit smaller than normal. So that was kind of my game plan: anything into the wicket, try and take that on,' Banton said after the match.

It is his first visit to Adelaide, despite having played three seasons for the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League. 'It's my first time in Adelaide. I've watched a lot of cricket in Australia over the years, the Ashes, white-ball series. So, to come here today is a pretty special feeling,' he told broadcasters.

The Opening Slot Battle

Banton is the fourth opener England have tried alongside regular partner Ben Duckett this year alone. He was first called up to open against Sri Lanka in September and has since accumulated 540 runs in nine innings at the top, including two centuries.

The opportunity arose after Jacob Bethell — who had appeared to cement the opening role with a 91 against India in the home ODI series in July — suffered a knee injury. Bethell was set to return for the Pakistan tour but arrived in Australia still recovering from ligament surgery, only to encounter a fresh setback that has further delayed his comeback.

What Banton Said About His Future

When asked directly whether the opening spot was now his to keep, Banton remained measured. 'I'd like to think so. Cricket's a funny old game. It can change very quickly. So I'm just taking each game as it comes now and just trying to score as many runs as I can,' he told BBC Test Match Special.

That pragmatism reflects the reality of England's batting depth: Bethell's return could yet reshape the equation, making every innings Banton plays a de facto audition.

Series Outlook

England have now forced the series to a decider after going behind following the first ODI. Their ability to put up 355/6 — a new benchmark for them in Australian conditions — signals that their batting line-up is firing at the right moment. How Banton and England's selectors navigate Bethell's eventual fitness return will be the subplot worth watching as the series reaches its conclusion.