Bethell, Livingstone star as England level T20 series

CARDIFF, England (CMC):

BARBADIAN JACOB Bethell produced an impressive performance with the bat to help England defeat Australia by three wickets in the second T20I on Friday and level the best-of-three series at 1-1.

After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, Australia, led by an even half-century from Jake Fraser-McGurk, posted a formidable 193 for six from their 20 overs.

The 20-year-old Bethell, in just his second T20 appearance for England, then blasted 44 from 24 balls, inclusive of four fours and three sixes, as England racked up 194-7 in 19 overs.

The pair came together with England precariously poised at 79-3 in the ninth over after fast bowler Sean Abbott snared two early wickets.

By the time Bethell was bowled by off-spinner Matthew Short, England had reached 169 and were on track for victory.

Short finished with the enviable figures of 5-22 from three overs.

The third and final T20I will be played on Sunday at Manchester.