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England vs Australia, 5th Test Commentary, Live Updates
ENG vs AUS, 2023 - Test Live Commentary
England vs Australia Scorecard
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Match Ended
Kennington Oval, London
, Jul 27, 2023
% Chance to Win
ENG
AUS
DRAW
Inn Break
Right then, that's all from the 73rd edition of the Ashes. Pat Cummins and Ben Stokes get together and pose with the Ashes Series Trophy. After the photographs are done, Cummins calls over his teammates to lift the coveted Ashes urn. This year's Ashes has ended with a 2-2 scoreline and it is Australia who will take the urn back home having won the last series. Both teams will take a month's break before they shift attention to the T20I format. England's next assignment sees them host New Zealand for a four-match T20I series while Australia travel to South Africa for a three-match T20I series. In the meantime, there's plenty of cricketing action happening across the globe. On Tuesday, 1st of August, West Indies and India will square off in the deciding game of their three-match ODI series. The first ball will be bowled at 7.00 pm IST (1.30 pm GMT). From here, it is goodbye and cheers!
Pat Cummins, the captain of Australia says that two high-quality teams participated in this series and most of the sessions were shared so he agrees that a drawn series is a fair result. Claims that right from the start they wanted to win the Ashes so from the word go in this run chase, they were looking to win. Mentions that they can be proud of retaining the Ashes against a quality side. Adds that it is the same side as the one that toured in 2019 so they are proud of the effort that they put in this time around. Informs that the Ashes is a difficult series not only out on the field but also with the fans and the media getting to you but he does not want to change anything about it. Reckons that there is no point looking at what they could change so 2-2 it is. Ends by paying tribute to Stuart Broad by saying that he is a great competitor who saves his best against Australia. Adds that he has played only one-third of the games that Broad has played and he cannot even think of playing that many matches so congratulations to him.
Ben Stokes, the skipper of England says that it is a really good feeling. Mentions that 2-2 is a fair reflection of two teams going toe-to-toe. Reckons that not many teams would have been able to respond after being 0-2 down. Feels pretty content with what they have achieved. Credits David Warner and Usman Khawaja for the way they batted in the fourth innings. Adds that it was always going to be tough chasing in the final inning with the scoreboard pressure. On Chris Woakes, he says that he says come good with the ball as well as with the bat in the lower order. On Mark Wood, he says that he could hardly walk but kept running in regardless. On Stuart Broad, he says that he has been an unbelievable performer for England and adds that it was written in the stars. On Moeen Ali, he says that he performed when it mattered the most for England and adds that he changed the game for them. Reckons that this series was what Test cricket needed.
Chris Woakes gets three awards as he is adjudged England’s Player of the Series, Man of the Match for this game as well as the Player of the Series for claiming 19 wickets in 6 innings. He says that it has been an amazing feeling to get into the side and win games. Claims that they still believed that they could come back despite being 2-0 down and 2-2 is a fair result. Informs that he was out of contention before so he just wanted to come into the side and contribute in order to help the team win a Ashes Test. Reckons that he felt like the opportunity would come, didn’t know when it will be but he needed to be prepared. Mentions that taking an early wicket when he was picked helped settle a few nerves. Adds that he got his rhythm going and some luck also went his way so he is grateful. About Stuart Broad, he says that the way he is going out is amazing and they will be hearing for a long time how he got a six on the last ball while batting and a wicket on his last delivery. Goes on to say that Australia are a pretty good team and it is not easy to take the wickets of big players so it was amazing to be able to do so. Admits that they were happy with the ball change and you have to have to some luck for it to work in your favour. Ends by saying that he does not know if he will continue playing Test cricket as he leaves that decision to Ben Stokes and the management but he would love to contribute and be a part of the toughest format of cricket.
Mitchell Starc is Australia's Player of the Series. He says that all five Test matches were incredible. Adds that it was exciting with the ebbs and flows throughout the series. On this loss, he says that it happened quickly and reckons that it was the nature of the series. Congratulates Stuart Broad on his retirement and says that he could not have written any better. Mentions that it was a fantastic tour to express himself. States that he got backing from Pat Cummins and Andrew McDonald. Feels that it was a pretty successful tour with a resilient group and a fantastic support staff.
Joe Root picks up the MVP award and the match officials collect their tokens. Now for some of the main awards and interviews...
The man of the moment, Stuart Broad is in for a chat. He starts by saying that it was absolutely wonderful. Adds that Chris Woakes and Moeen Ali set the tone after the rain interruption. Shares that once they got a couple of wickets, they started to believe. Mentions that the crowd was loud and says that they jumped on the back of it. States that it feels special to take the two wickets and contribute to the team's win. On his six off his last ball, he jokingly says that it was the only ball he middled all year. On Moeen Ali, he says that he has not officially announced his retirement yet and says that to be able to put in this performance will be special for him. Mentions that he did a lot of research into bowling against David Warner. Reckons that knowing about weaknesses is as important as knowing strengths. On switching the bails, he says that had he learnt it 10 years ago, he would have been away. Shares that new ball skidded onto the bat and run-scoring became easier. States that it was great to see the crowd wearing headbands and adds that it made him smile.
Joe Root played remarkably well the second time around to score 91 in 106 balls and stitched together a 110-run partnership with Jonny Bairstow who notched up a half-century as well. The tail could not contribute heavily but James Anderson and Stuart Broad managed to play through to Stumps on Day 3. It was after that day's play that Broad announced that he was hanging his boots in international cricket and the crowd saw him hit his last delivery in Test cricket for a maximum the following morning. England were bowled out for 395 setting the visitors a target of 384 and Australia were off to a great start scoring 135 runs without losing a wicket on Day 4 before the game was called off due to rain. They lost three wickets early on the final day as both the openers departed after getting to their half centuries and Marnus Labuchagne could not make much of an impact.
In their first effort, David Warner got into his 20s and gave away his wicket but Usman Khawaja held up one end scoring 47 runs in 157 deliveries. Steven Smith looked good enroute his 71 but a flurry of wickets had them 98 runs behind the England total with three wickets in hand. The tail wagged as Pat Cummins and Todd Murphy made 30-plus scores and helped the Aussies take a first-inning lead of 12 runs. Chris Woakes was really good once again taking three crucial wickets with Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, and Joe Root adding a couple each to their kitty. England came out to bat for the second time with only aggression on their mind. Zak Crawley scored 73 runs in 76 deliveries to get the hosts off to a flier and Ben Duckett along with his skipper Ben Stokes, who promoted himself to number 3, were dismissed 8 runs short of a half-century but they were consistently scoring at over 5 runs per over.
Pat Cummins won his first toss of the series and elected to bowl first under overcast conditions and it seemed like a masterstroke as the visitors were able to bowl out their opponents in a little more than two sessions. England had however managed to score at a brisk rate and were bowled out for 283 runs in 54.4 overs. Harry Brook top scored for his side with 85 in 91 deliveries and the top three batters Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, and Moeen Ali all got off to decent starts but could not make the most of it. Cameos from Chris Woakes and Mark Wood helped them reach a decent total in the first inning. Mitchell Starc was the pick of the bowlers claiming 4 wickets and was well supported by Josh Hazlewood and Todd Murphy who chipped in with two wickets each. While we witnessed an exhibition of ‘Bazball’ from England, Australia adopted a completely different approach as they decided to be defensive and play for time.
SESSION SUMMARY - 96 runs and 7 wickets in 28.4 overs. There were a total of 47 overs scheduled to be played in the final session of this Test series after a long stoppage in play and with 146 runs needed to win, Australia were firm favourites with two set batters at the crease along with seven wickets in hand. Steven Smith got to his fifty as he looked to be playing another valuable knock in his team’s cause. Moeen Ali got his first wicket of the game to break the 95-run fourth-wicket partnership on the very next ball as he dismissed Travis Head 7 runs short of his half-century. Things turned quickly thereafter as Chris Woakes dismissed Steven Smith on 54 in the next over and Moeen Ali came back to send Mitchell Marsh back to the shed. Both the bowlers claimed one more wicket each dismissing Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins as Australia were reduced from 264 for 3 to 294 for 8. Alex Carey and Todd Murphy did try to fight back but the script was already written and they had to stumble under the euphoria surrounding the man of the hour Stuart Broad.
ENGLAND WIN THE FIFTH AND FINAL ASHES TEST MATCH! They have managed to level the series in dramatic fashion! Let us not forget the extraordinary story of a cricketing legend Stuart Broad who claimed the last two wickets to end his illustrious career with an Ashes Test win! The emotions around the stadium are pretty high at the moment as the great fast bowler walks off the cricket ground as a player for the last time. It was not too long back when we had a resumption after the rain interval and at that time there were talks about how Australia are well on course to clinch this game to win the series 3-1. It did not take long for England to flip the odds and condemn the Aussies to a devastating loss by 49 runs. Australia did manage to retain the Ashes but they will be thanking the rain gods for washing out the game at Old Trafford as they conceded an early 2-0 lead to finish the series on level terms.
End Of The Over 94.4 : 334/10
0 Runs
- 094.1
- 094.2
- 094.3
- W 94.4
A. Carey
28 (50)
J. Hazlewood
4 (8)
S. Broad
20.4-4-62-2
94.4
W
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey OUT!
OUT! EDGED AND GONE! There it is, a fairytale ending to Stuart Broad's career! Broad nips out Carey and makes him the final victim of his career! Serves it on a good length, in the channel on off, angling in this time, from 'round the wicket, Alex Carey looks to get on the front foot and gets his bat out in front to defend. The ball nibbles away after pitching and does the trick for Broad. Catches the outside edge and Jonny Bairstow behind the wickets does the rest. Stuart Broad is delighted and so are his teammates. The Oval crowd is up on their feet to applaud what has been a magnificent career. England win by 49 runs!
94.3
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Bumper this time, on middle, Alex Carey ducks underneath quickly and lets the ball go through to the keeper.
94.2
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Nagging length, angling in, on leg, Alex Carey tucks it in the vacant square leg region and stays put.
94.1
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Lands it on a good length, just outside off, Alex Carey takes a stride forward and punches it towards point. Wants to run but in the end, refuses the single.
End Of The Over 94 : 334/9
4 Runs
- 093.1
- 093.2
- 093.3
- 493.4
- 093.5
- 093.6
J. Hazlewood
4 (8)
A. Carey
28 (46)
M. Ali
23-2-76-3
93.6
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Floated up, on off, Josh Hazlewood blocks it out off the front foot.
93.5
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Tosses this full and at the stumps. Josh Hazlewood smothers the ball into the pitch.
93.4
4
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
FOUR! That is a good-looking shot from Australia's number 11! This is bowled a tad bit short as well and outside off. Josh Hazlewood goes deep in the crease and punches this towards deep cover-point for four runs.
93.3
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Loops this one full and on and off-stump line. Josh Hazlewood dabs this back down the pitch towards the bowler.
93.2
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Onto the pads, Josh Hazlewood blocks it out off the front foot.
93.1
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Short this time and outside the off pole. Josh Hazlewood makes room and swings his blade. Gets an under edge onto the pads on the keeper.
End Of The Over 93 : 330/9
0 Runs
- 092.1
- 092.2
- 092.3
- 092.4
- 092.5
- 092.6
A. Carey
28 (46)
J. Hazlewood
0 (2)
S. Broad
20-4-62-1
92.6
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Beaten again! In the channel again, on a good length, on off, Alex Carey has a feel for the delivery. The ball moves away late and zips past his outside edge.
92.5
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
DROPPED! Zak Crawley has put down a tough chance at second slip! Another good-length delivery, angling in, around off, Alex Carey looks to defend away from the body. Gets an outside edge that travels low to second slip. Zak Crawley does get down low but the ball hits his wrist and pops out.
92.4
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Beaten! On a nagging length, outside off, shaping away, Alex Carey has a loose poke at the delivery. He is lucky not to edge it behind.
92.3
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
On a good length and angling into the pads, Alex Carey misses the tuck and wears it on the thigh pad.
92.2
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Keeps it full and angling in, on off, Alex Carey works it through mid on and denies the single again.
92.1
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Goes full and honing in at the stumps, Alex Carey clips it towards wide mid on. Refuses the single.
End Of The Over 92 : 330/9
1 Runs
- 091.1
- 091.2
- 091.3
- 191.4
- 091.5
- 091.6
J. Hazlewood
0 (2)
A. Carey
28 (40)
M. Ali
22-2-72-3
91.6
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood survives! Fullish delivery, on middle and leg, The batter watchfully keeps it out into the leg side.
91.5
0
Moeen Ali To Josh Hazlewood
Flights this one full and outside the off pole. Josh Hazlewood dabs this towards silly point with soft hands.
91.4
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Continues to bowl short and outside the off stump. Alex Carey goes deep in the crease and punches this towards deep cover for a run.
91.3
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Slightly short this time and at the stumps. Alex Carey rocks back and keeps the ball out with a straight bat.
91.2
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Tosses this one full and in line with the stumps. Alex Carey shimmies down the pitch and pushes this towards the bowler.
91.1
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Moeen Ali floats this one full and just outside off. Alex Carey attempts the reverse sweep but misses and gets hit on the body.
Josh Hazlewood is the last batter for Australia!
End Of The Over 91 : 329/9
6 Runs
- 190.1
- 190.2
- 490.3
- 090.4
- 090.5
- W 90.6
T. Murphy
18 (39)
A. Carey
27 (36)
S. Broad
19-3-62-1
90.6
W
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy OUT!
OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Who else, but Stuart Broad! The stars have finally aligned for a dream farewell! Continues to bowl it in the corridor of uncertainty, on off, much straighter this time, Todd Murphy is made to play at the delivery which brings about his downfall. The ball nips away after pitching and catches the outside edge. The ball travels quickly to the left of Jonny Bairstow who moves well and takes a clean catch. The end is near for Australia as they are now 9 down.
90.5
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
In the channel, on off, Todd Murphy plays inside the line as he tried to defend. The ball nips away and beats Murphy on the outside edge.
90.4
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Goes back on a good length, shaping away, around off, Todd Murphy has a feel for the delivery and is lucky to not edge this one behind.
90.3
4
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
FOUR! Murphy pulls and pulls well! Broad bowls a bumper, on middle, Todd Murphy gets into a good position nice and early and pulls it hard towards deep backward square leg for a boundary.
90.2
1
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
On a good length, angling in, on middle and leg, Alex Carey gets squared as he tried to clip it away. Gets a soft leading that rolls in front of cover for a run.
90.1
1
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Nails the yorker, on middle, from 'round the wicket, Todd Murphy digs it out in front of point for a single.
End Of The Over 90 : 323/8
8 Runs
- 189.1
- 189.2
- 089.3
- 089.4
- 689.5
- 089.6
A. Carey
26 (35)
T. Murphy
13 (34)
M. Ali
21-2-71-3
89.6
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Floated up, on off, kept out on the off side by Carey.
89.5
6
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
SIX! Good use of the feet and this is hit straight as an arrow by Carey! Tossed up, on middle by Ali, Alex Carey shimmies down the track and thumps it back over the bowler's head for a flat maximum.
89.4
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Full again, on middle, blocked out by Carey.
89.3
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Pushed through this time, full on middle, Alex Carey blocks it out off the front foot.
89.2
1
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Angled in again, full and on middle, Todd Murphy clips it past short leg and rotates the strike.
89.1
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Darted in, full and around off, Alex Carey takes a stride forward to defend. The ball rolls on the leg side off the inner half of the bat. A single taken.
End Of The Over 89 : 315/8
2 Runs
- 188.1
- 088.2
- 188.3
- 088.4
- 088.5
- 088.6
T. Murphy
12 (33)
A. Carey
19 (30)
S. Broad
18-3-56-0
88.6
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Bumper by Broad, at the batter, Todd Murphy swivels and goes for the pull a bit too early. Misses and wears it on the body.
88.5
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Hurls it on a hard length, shaping away, outside off, Todd Murphy does well on this occasion to not go chasing at the delivery.
88.4
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Fullish delivery, outside off by Broad, Todd Murphy squeezes it out towards point.
88.3
1
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Angling in, on a good length, Alex Carey gets forward and punches it sweetly towards extra cover for one.
88.2
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Slanting down leg, on a fuller length, Alex Carey charges down the track and looks to help it away but misses.
88.1
1
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
On a yorker length, down leg, Todd Murphy gets inside the line and clips it towards deep backward square leg. Gets across for a run.
End Of The Over 88 : 313/8
4 Runs
- 187.1
- 087.2
- 187.3
- 187.4
- 187.5
- 087.6
A. Carey
18 (28)
T. Murphy
11 (29)
M. Ali
20-2-63-3
87.6
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Drops it short this time, on middle, Alex Carey rocks back and pushes it straight to cover.
87.5
1
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Low full toss, on middle, Todd Murphy drives it with soft hands towards extra cover for one.
87.4
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Shortens his length and serves it on off, Alex Carey goes on the back foot and cuts it to deep cover for a single.
87.3
1
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Uppish but safe! Tossed up, full and outside off, Todd Murphy gets on the front foot and lofts it over mid off for a single.
87.2
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
With the angle this time, on off, Todd Murphy gets a stride forward and defends it past silly point.
87.1
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
A bit slow and short, turning away, outside off, Alex Carey plays with the turn and dabs it towards deep backward point for a single.
End Of The Over 87 : 309/8
3 Runs
- 386.1
- 086.2
- 086.3
- 086.4
- 086.5
- 086.6
T. Murphy
9 (26)
A. Carey
16 (25)
S. Broad
17-3-54-0
86.6
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Bowls on a yorker length, on middle, Todd Murphy watchfully digs this one out down the wicket.
86.5
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Lands it on a hard length, going away, on off and middle, Todd Murphy looks to work it across the line but misses. Wears it high on the back leg.
86.4
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Serves it full this time, on off, Todd Murphy knocks it back to the bowler.
86.3
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Beaten again! Angling away, outside off, on a good length, Todd Murphy looks to defend but gets beaten yet again as the ball nips away.
86.2
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Shaping away, on a good length, outside off, Todd Murphy hangs back in the crease to defend. Does not go chasing at the delivery and misses.
86.1
3
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Broad with a tempter this time, full and wide outside off, Alex Carey reaches out and drives it through covers. Comes back for the third run before Stokes tidies it up.
End Of The Over 86 : 306/8
0 Runs
- 085.1
- 085.2
- 085.3
- 085.4
- 085.5
- 085.6
T. Murphy
9 (21)
A. Carey
13 (24)
M. Ali
19-2-59-3
85.6
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Loops this one full and outside the off pole. Todd Murphy gets his front foot forward and dabs this towards the fielder at short cover.
85.5
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Bowls this slightly short and at the stumps. Todd Murphy rocks back and blocks this back towards the bowler.
85.4
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Bowls it full and on the off stump line, Todd Murphy pushes it back to Ali.
85.3
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Flighted delivery, full around off, Todd Murphy works it straight to cover.
85.2
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Fuller and on off, Todd Murphy takes a stride forward and keeps it out on the off side.
85.1
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Floated up, on off, Todd Murphy gets forward and blocks it out on the off side.
End Of The Over 85 : 306/8
6 Runs
- 184.1
- 484.2
- 084.3
- 084.4
- 184.5
- 084.6
A. Carey
13 (24)
T. Murphy
9 (15)
S. Broad
16-3-51-0
84.6
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Fuller and at the stumps, Alex Carey pushes it with a straight bat towards Broad.
84.5
1
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Broad goes short this time, on middle, Todd Murphy swivels and pulls it uppishly but well in front of the deep square leg fielder for a single.
84.4
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Fuller this time, on off, Todd Murphy strokes it along the ground towards mid on.
84.3
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
This one holds it line, on a good length, on middle, Todd Murphy hangs back in the crease to defend but misses. Gets hit high on the back leg.
84.2
4
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
FOUR! Whoa, where has that come from? Broad hoes full again, on middle and leg, Todd Murphy steps out of the crease and clips it aerially towards the deep mid-wicket fence for a boundary.
84.1
1
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Angling in, full on middle, Alex Carey clips it through mid on and gets across for a single.
End Of The Over 84 : 300/8
1 Runs
- 083.1
- 183.2
- 083.3
- 083.4
- 083.5
- 083.6
T. Murphy
4 (11)
A. Carey
12 (22)
M. Ali
18-1-59-3
83.6
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Fired in, on middle, Todd Murphy with the forward stride again, looks to defend. Gets it off the inner half of the bat towards short leg.
83.5
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Pushed through, on middle, Todd Murphy takes a good stride forward and blocks it out.
83.4
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Full and slower, on off, Todd Murphy works this one off the front foot towards cover.
83.3
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Short this time, on middle, Todd Murphy gets behind the line and defends it down the wicket.
83.2
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Gives the ball air again and serves it on off, Alex Carey uses his feet and strokes it down to long off for a single.
83.1
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Tossed up, around off, Alex Carey gets forward and defends it on the off side.
End Of The Over 83 : 299/8
5 Runs
- 082.1
- 082.2
- 182.3
- 082.4
- 482.5
- 082.6
T. Murphy
4 (7)
A. Carey
11 (20)
S. Broad
15-3-45-0
82.6
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Back of a length this time, angling in, outside off, Todd Murphy has a feel for the delivery and gets beaten again.
82.5
4
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
FOUR! Streaky but Australia will take it! Lands it on a good length, outside off, Todd Murphy shapes to defend this one. Gets an outside edge that rolls wide of gully for a boundary.
82.4
0
Stuart Broad To Todd Murphy
Beaten! Angled in, on a good length, around off, Todd Murphy gets forward to defend. The ball nips away and beats Murphy on the outside edge.
82.3
1
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
On a length and outside off, Alex Carey uses his feet and pushes through backward point for a single.
82.2
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Strays down leg this time, on a good length, Alex Carey looks to tickle it fine but misses.
82.1
0
Stuart Broad To Alex Carey
Angling into the batter, on a hard length, Alex Carey tucks this one off the pads on the leg side.
End Of The Over 82 : 294/8
1 Runs
- 181.1
- W 81.2
- 081.3
- 081.4
- 081.5
- 081.6
T. Murphy
0 (4)
A. Carey
10 (17)
M. Ali
17-1-58-3
81.6
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Continues to flight it full and outside off. Todd Murphy knocks this through cover and Alex Carey refuses the single as he wants to keep strike.
81.5
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Loops this one full as well and outside off. Todd Murphy puts in a confident stride forward and keeps the ball out.
81.4
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
Floats this one full and into the stumps. Todd Murphy blocks this back down the pitch to the left of the bowler.
81.3
0
Moeen Ali To Todd Murphy
A stifled appeal for catch but turned down! Tossed up, full and outside off, Todd Murphy goes for the drive away from the body but misses. The ball deflects off Bairstow's gloves and goes into the hands of Root at first slip. A bit of an enquiry by the English players but the umpire says no.
Todd Murphy is the new batter at the crease.
81.2
W
Moeen Ali To Pat Cummins OUT!
OUT! TAKEN! Another bites the dust as the pairing of Ali and Woakes continues to do the damage! Moeen Ali bowls this one short, turning in, on middle, Pat Cummins swivels in the crease and shapes to pull it hard. He swings his bat a little too early and gets an inside edge on it. The ball deflects off the edge onto the pad and lobs to the left of leg slip. Ben Stokes moves swiftly to his left and clings onto the catch this time around. Third wicket for Moeen Ali and England are now two wickets away from a famous win.
81.1
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Slower and fuller, around off, Alex Carey with the paddle yet again and works it to fine leg for one.
End Of The Over 81 : 293/7
6 Runs
- 480.1
- 180.2
- 080.3
- 080.4
- 080.5
- 180.6
A. Carey
9 (16)
P. Cummins
9 (13)
C. Woakes
19-4-50-4
80.6
1
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Angled in yet again, on a hard length, on middle, Alex Carey eases it in front of mid on and keeps the strike with a single.
80.5
0
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Switches to 'round the wicket and bowls it slightly short, outside off, Alex Carey uses his feet to cut this one away but misses.
80.4
0
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Angles this one across, full on off and middle, Alex Carey pushes it off the outer half of the bat towards cover.
80.3
0
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Continues to bowl from over the wicket, full and around off, Alex Carey plants his foot forward and knocks it towards mid off.
80.2
1
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Fuller and honing in at the stumps, Pat Cummins drives it on the up towards mid off and gets across for a single.
80.1
4
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
FOUR! Smart batting by the Aussie skipper! Woakes lands it on a back of a length, around off, Pat Cummins waits back in the crease for the ball to arrive. Opens the bat face and steers it past gully for a boundary.
End Of The Over 80 : 287/7
3 Runs
- 079.1
- 179.2
- 079.3
- 279.4
- 079.5
- 079.6
A. Carey
8 (12)
P. Cummins
4 (11)
M. Ali
16-1-57-2
79.6
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Much straighter this time, full on off, Alex Carey prods forward and blocks it out.
79.5
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Floated up again, on off, Alex Carey gets forward and defends it towards cover.
79.4
2
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
In the air...but safe! Goes back to fuller length, on off and middle, Alex Carey gets down to sweep once again. Gets a top edge that luckily for him, eludes Chris Woakes at deep backward square leg. Two runs taken.
79.3
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Bowls it short, on off, Alex Carey opts to stay on the back foot and keeps it out.
79.2
1
Moeen Ali To Pat Cummins
Nicely tossed up, around off, Pat Cummins drills it hard and wide of mid off for a single.
79.1
0
Moeen Ali To Pat Cummins
Slower and shorter, turning in, on middle, Pat Cummins uses the depth of the crease to clip it past short leg. Fails to get any bat on it and the ball lobs off his thigh pad in front of first slip.
End Of The Over 79 : 284/7
2 Runs
- 1 LB 78.1
- 078.2
- 078.3
- 078.4
- 078.5
- 178.6
P. Cummins
3 (9)
A. Carey
6 (8)
C. Woakes
18-4-44-4
78.6
1
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Back of a length again, outside off, Pat Cummins opens the bat face and dabs this one down to deep backward point for a single.
78.5
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Bends his back and goes into the wicket, outside off, Pat Cummins ducks underneath and lets it go.
78.4
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Fuller this time and wide outside off, Pat Cummins leans and drives it straight to cover.
78.3
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Hurls it on a good length, on middle, Pat Cummins shuffles and pats it back to Woakes.
78.2
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Beauty! Fraction fuller and shaping away, in the channel on off, Pat Cummins has a feel for the delivery away from the body and is lucky to not edge it behind.
78.1
lb
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Leg bye! On a nagging length, on middle, Alex Carey looks to clip it through square leg. Gets hit high on the thigh pad and the ball rolls in front of point for a leg bye.
End Of The Over 78 : 282/7
5 Runs
- 077.1
- 077.2
- 077.3
- 477.4
- 177.5
- 077.6
P. Cummins
2 (4)
A. Carey
6 (7)
M. Ali
15-1-54-2
77.6
0
Moeen Ali To Pat Cummins
Moeen Ali bowls it fraction short, around off, Pat Cummins goes back in his crease and defends it down the wicket.
77.5
1
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Drifts down leg, on a full length, Alex Carey gets down and paddles it towards deep backward square leg for a single.
77.4
4
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
FOUR! Neatly done by Carey! Fired in, full and on off, Alex Carey gets into the position quickly and uses the pace of the delivery. Paddles it towards the fine leg fence for a boundary.
77.3
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Pushed through, around off, Alex Carey pushes it off the front foot towards cover.
77.2
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Tossed up again, around off, Alex Carey gets on the front foot and blocks it out.
77.1
0
Moeen Ali To Alex Carey
Floated up, on middle, Alex Carey gets to the pitch of the ball and keeps it out on the off side.
End Of The Over 77 : 277/7
3 Runs
- 076.1
- 176.2
- W 76.3
- 076.4
- 276.5
- 076.6
P. Cummins
2 (3)
A. Carey
1 (2)
C. Woakes
17-4-43-4
76.6
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Angling into the batter, on a back of a length, on middle, Pat Cummins looks to work it across the line but misses and wears it on the thigh pad.
76.5
2
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Fullish delivery, outside off by Woakes, Pat Cummins carves this one wide of point and gets off the mark with a couple of runs.
76.4
0
Chris Woakes To Pat Cummins
Almost another edge! In the channel on off, on a hard length, Pat Cummins waits in the crease to defend. The ball keeps a bit low and sneaks past the bottom edge of the bat.
Pat Cummins, the skipper of Australia has a massive task in hand to help bail his team out of trouble. Will he be able to do it?
76.3
W
Chris Woakes To Mitchell Starc OUT!
OUT! CAUGHT! Another one bites the dust and it's that man again, Chris Woakes! Woakes goes slightly full and angles it across, outside off, Mitchell Starc with a loose shot away from the body. Pushes with hard hands and pays the price. Gets an outside edge which goes straight into the hands of Zak Crawley at second slip. Australia's slide continues and they are now 7 down.
76.2
1
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
Pulls his length back and delivers it around middle and leg, Alex Carey hangs back and tucks it through square leg. Opens his account with a single.
76.1
0
Chris Woakes To Alex Carey
On a good length, at the stumps, Alex Carey plants his foot forward and defends it on the off side.
End Of The Over 76 : 274/6
0 Runs
- 075.1
- 075.2
- 075.3
- 075.4
- W 75.5
- 075.6
M. Starc
0 (1)
A. Carey
0 (0)
M. Ali
14-1-49-2
75.6
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Starc
Tossed up just outside off stump, spins away from the left-hander. Mitchell Starc plays the front foot defence, gets the outside edge which falls short of the second slip to end the over.
Mitchell Starc walks out to the middle with lots of work to do here!
75.5
W
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh OUT!
OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Three wickets in three consecutive overs and the game has turned in a flash! Australia are absolutely crumbling here and it is England who are right on top in this tie! Moeen Ali has two quick wickets and he was bound to make an impact on this game despite his injury! This is tossed up full and outside the off stump. Mitchell Marsh pushes forward to defend and the ball takes the inside edge while spinning back towards the stumps. It goes on to hit the pads and lobs up to the right of the wicketkeeper. Jonny Bairstow sticks his hand out and grabs the ball as he falls over but does not let his elbow hit the ground. Mitchell Marsh does not even wait for the umpire to decide as he turns around and begins his walk back to the pavilion. Australia have lost six wickets now and England are four scalps away from leveling the series!
75.4
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Tossed up on the stumps. Mitchell Marsh offers the front foot defence. Ball rolls to short leg.
75.3
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Dropped short. Mitchell Marsh flicks it to mid wicket.
75.2
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Tossed up full. Mitchell Marsh pushes it straight to mid off.
75.1
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Dropped short, turning sharply towards the off stump. Mitchell Marsh blocks it off from the back foot.
Alex Carey strides out to the middle.
End Of The Over 75 : 274/5
5 Runs
- 174.1
- 474.2
- 074.3
- 074.4
- 074.5
- W 74.6
S. Smith
54 (94)
M. Marsh
6 (4)
C. Woakes
16-4-40-3
74.6
W
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith OUT!
OUT! EDGED AND TAKEN! A massive wicket for England and Chris Woakes has brought them right back into the game! Comes from over the wicket and serves it on a good length, around off, Steven Smith shuffles across in the crease to defend. The ball nips away after pitching and catches the outside edge of Smith's bat. The ball travels at a good height to Zak Crawley at second slip who does the rest. Australia have now lost both their set batters and find themselves in a spot of bother.
74.5
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Just short on the middle stump this time. Steven Smith blocks it off from the crease.
74.4
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the good length outside off stump allowing Steven Smith to play the front foot defence.
74.3
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Just short again on the off stump. Steven Smith blocks it from the crease.
74.2
4
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
FOUR! Just short at the body of Steven Smith who pulls it away from the crease towards deep square leg boundary. What a shot.
74.1
1
Chris Woakes To Mitchell Marsh
Hits the good length outside off. Mitchell Marsh pushes it on the front foot towards sweeper for a single.
End Of The Over 74 : 269/4
7 Runs
- 173.1
- 173.2
- W 73.3
- 073.4
- 473.5
- 173.6
M. Marsh
5 (3)
S. Smith
50 (89)
M. Ali
13-0-49-1
73.6
1
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Sweeps again from outside the off stump towards the deep square leg for a single to end the over.
73.5
4
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
FOUR! Sweeps and sweeps well on his 2nd ball. Moeen Ali loops one outside off, Mitchell Marsh gets down on one knee and sweeps it to the right of deep square leg for a welcome boundary.
73.4
0
Moeen Ali To Mitchell Marsh
Looped up on the offstump. Mitchell Marsh plays the front foot defence.
Mitchell Marsh is the new man in.
73.3
W
Moeen Ali To Travis Head OUT!
OUT! CAUGHT! Moeen Ali gets his first wicket of the game and it may be a huge scalp in the context of the game! Travis Head's attacking ability could have taken the game away from the hosts in a jiffy but he perishes 7 runs short of his half-century. Moeen Ali flights this one full and outside the off stump. Travis Head goes for the expansive drive through covers but the ball lands on the rough and turns away from the bat sharply. Takes the outside edge of the bat and goes towards slip where Joe Root makes the catch look really easy. Australia lose their fourth wicket early in the final session and England will have their tails up as they look for a few more quick wickets.
73.2
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
FIFTY for Steven Smith! Runs in the first innings and Smith has backed it up in the second innings as well. Pitched up slow outside off, Steven Smith pushes it to long on for a single to pick up his 50.
73.1
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Short outside off, cut away by the batter towards sweeper for a single.
End Of The Over 73 : 262/3
4 Runs
- 072.1
- 072.2
- 072.3
- 472.4
- 072.5
- 072.6
S. Smith
49 (88)
T. Head
42 (68)
C. Woakes
15-4-35-2
72.6
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the stumps from the good length. Steven Smith blocks it off from the crease to end the over.
72.5
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Pitched up again outside off. Steven Smith pushes it off the front leg towards mid off.
72.4
4
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
FOUR! What a shot off the front foot to a ball pitched outside off stump on the good length. No swing for Chris Woakes this time and Steven Smith capitalizes by opening his arms and playing a delightful cover drive for a boundary.
72.3
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the good length again, targetting the off stump. Steven Smith blocks it off straight to the bowler from the crease.
72.2
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Just short, outside the off stump. Steven Smith is happy to let it go from the crease.
72.1
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Length ball on the stumps, swinging in. Steven Smith blocks it off to mid wicket from the crease.
End Of The Over 72 : 258/3
2 Runs
- 171.1
- 071.2
- 071.3
- 171.4
- 071.5
- 071.6
T. Head
42 (68)
S. Smith
45 (82)
M. Ali
12-0-42-0
71.6
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Tossed up again on the stump. Travis Head gets this one to hit his back leg while playing the front foot defence, huge appeal for LBW but turned down. The players discuss whether to go for a review but Ben Stokes decides against it. A good decision as this was going over the leg pole.
71.5
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Tossed up on the off stump. Travis Head drill this straight to the fielder at short cover.
71.4
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Short on the pads, Steven Smith flicks it off his pads to pick up a single towards backward square leg.
71.3
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Tossed up outside off, Steven Smith offers the front foot defence.
Before the start of this over, the umpires got together to inform Ben Stokes regarding the number of possible overs. There seems to have been a miscalculation by the umpires before the resumption and they have now informed Stokes that the number of overs to be bowled in this final session is 47.
71.2
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Short and slow on the middle stump. Steven Smith flicks it to mid wicket.
71.1
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Short ball on the off stump, pushed towards sweeper cover on the backfoot for a single.
End Of The Over 71 : 256/3
3 Runs
- 170.1
- 070.2
- 070.3
- 170.4
- 170.5
- 070.6
S. Smith
44 (79)
T. Head
41 (65)
C. Woakes
14-4-31-2
70.6
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Length ball at the stumps. Steven Smith blocks it off from the crease.
70.5
1
Chris Woakes To Travis Head
Dropped short at the body. Travis Head pulls it to deep square leg for a single.
70.4
1
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Dragged the inswinger on the pads from the good length. Steven Smith flicks it towards fine leg and picks up a single.
70.3
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Pitched on the good length around off. Steven Smith blocks it off from the front foot towards the cover fielder.
70.2
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Bowls this back of a length and just outside off. Steven Smith gets across the stumps and clips this towards mid-wicket.
70.1
1
Chris Woakes To Travis Head
Chris Woakes bowls this slightly short and outside off. Travis Head cuts this late towards deep point for a single.
End Of The Over 70 : 253/3
2 Runs
- 169.1
- 069.2
- 069.3
- 169.4
- 069.5
- 069.6
S. Smith
43 (75)
T. Head
39 (63)
M. Ali
11-0-40-0
69.6
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Tosses this full and just outside off. Steven Smith clips this towards the fielder at mid-wicket.
69.5
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Loops this one full and outside the off stump. Steven Smith gets a good stride forward but the ball turns, beats the inside edge and raps him on his pads. A loud appeal from the bowler but the impact is clearly outside off.
69.4
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Short again outside off. Travis Head pushes it to deep point and runs a single.
69.3
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Dropped short on the off stump. Travis Head pushes it straight to mid off.
69.2
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
On a shorter length once again and just outside off. Travis Head rocks back and punches this towards cover.
69.1
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Moeen Ali bowls this short and turns this into the stumps. Steven Smith tucks this towards deep square leg for one.
End Of The Over 69 : 251/3
5 Runs
- 068.1
- 068.2
- 1 B 68.3
- 068.4
- 068.5
- 468.6
T. Head
38 (60)
S. Smith
42 (72)
C. Woakes
13-4-28-2
68.6
4
Chris Woakes To Travis Head
FOUR! Pitched up and on the pads, Travis Head pushes it from the front foot to the right of mid on and picks up a handsome boundary for his team.
68.5
0
Chris Woakes To Travis Head
Pitched up, outside off stump, Travis Head plays the front foot drive but straight to mid off.
68.4
0
Chris Woakes To Travis Head
What a ball this time to the left hander. Angling away from the short length just outside off. Travis Head looks to play the back foot push but is beaten completely.
68.3
b
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Short this time and wide outside the off stump. Some vicious bounce off the surface. Steven Smith leaves this one alone and Jonny Bairstow spills the ball moving to his right. The ball goes towards third man and they take a bye.
68.2
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Just short on the off stump nipping back a little, Steven Smith looks to play at this but misses and the ball rolls off the pads towards point. Smith wants to get to the other side but is sent back by his partner.
68.1
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the perfect length just outside off stump with some late out swing movement. Steven Smith looks to play this over the top but is completely beaten on this occasion.
End Of The Over 68 : 246/3
8 Runs
- 267.1
- 067.2
- 3 LB 67.3
- 167.4
- 167.5
- 167.6
S. Smith
42 (69)
T. Head
34 (57)
M. Ali
10-0-38-0
67.6
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Floated up, on middle, the ball straightens a bit, Steven Smith opens the bat face and steers it towards point for a run.
67.5
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Pushed through, on middle and leg, Travis Head looks to defend. Gets an inside edge that rolls behind square on the leg side for a single.
67.4
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Steven Smith steps down to a looped-up ball outside off stump. Plays it toward the covers gap and picks a single.
67.3
lb
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Looped up on the legs. Travis Head looks to flick it but misses, ball hits his pads and the batters pick up 3 runs from fine leg.
67.2
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Looped up on the off stump. Travis Head plays the front foot defence towards short extra cover.
67.1
2
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Pitched short outside off. Travis Head cuts it off the back foot towards deep point and runs a double.
It will be the spin of Moeen Ali from the other end.
End Of The Over 67 : 238/3
0 Runs
- 066.1
- 066.2
- 066.3
- 066.4
- 066.5
- 066.6
S. Smith
40 (67)
T. Head
31 (53)
C. Woakes
12-4-24-2
66.6
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Another out swinger from the stump. Steven Smith plays it straight to mid wicket.
66.5
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the good length just outside off. Steven Smith blocks it from the crease towards mid off.
66.4
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
What a ball, just short outside off stump, swinging away from the right-hander. Steven Smith is completely beaten off the back foot.
66.3
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Another outswinger from the good length, just around off stump. Steven Smith blocks it off from the crease towards mid on.
66.2
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Bowls the length ball on the off stump, gets a hint of outswing. Steven Smith walks around and blocks it off from the crease.
66.1
0
Chris Woakes To Steven Smith
Hits the good length outside off stump to start. Steven Smith lets this one go.
We are all set for the post-Tea session to begin. The two umpires and players have made their way out to the middle. Australia's two batters, Steven Smith and Travis Head are all set to resume their innings. Chris Woakes has the ball in hand and is raring to go. Here we go...
... DAY 5, SESSION 3 ...
UPDATE - 8.33 pm IST (3.03 pm GMT) - We have good news folks! The umpires have decided that the game will resume at 8.50 pm IST (3.20 pm GMT) as the ground staff have done remarkably well to dry the outfield out. Folks, we have a game on our hands at the Kennington Oval. A total of 52 overs are to be bowled in this last session subject to light and weather. Australia require 146 more runs while England are 7 wickets away from ending the series on level terms. Do join us shortly for live-action...
UPDATE - 7.54 pm IST (2.24 pm GMT) - Right then, since the ground staff are in the process of drying up the outfield, the umpires have decided to take Tea now. Provided there is no further rain, we should get the final session of this year's Ashes underway after the Tea interval. More promising signs as the umpires have decided that there will be a pitch inspection at 8.30 pm IST (3 PM GMT). Let's keep our fingers crossed that the weather holds up and we can have some positive news regarding the resumption.
UPDATE - 7.37 pm IST (2.07 pm GMT) - The wait continues and there is not much news to bring to you guys unfortunately. We have started losing overs though and soon the equation will be getting tougher for Australia. Just as we say this the intensity of the rain seems to be getting low and the umbrellas are being folded in the crowd. Does this mean we will be getting some movement now in an attempt to restart the game? We will find out soon...
UPDATE - 7.11 pm IST (1.41 pm GMT) - The rain has settled in now and it looked like we are in for a long wait. It could be a disappointing end to what has been an enthralling series as once again the rain gods have decided to ruin the hard work that the players have put in for most of the Test match. We will still keep an optimistic approach in the hope that the downpour subsides and the efficient ground staff bring us some cricket soon after that. Stay tuned for more updates.
UPDATE - 6.38 pm IST (1.08 pm GMT) - Sigh! Just when we were nearing the start of the post-Lunch session, it started to rain again. The two umpires and players had taken their respective positions, only to be sent back by what looks like a mizzle at the moment. It has gotten heavier and the entire square has been covered for now. The radar does not look promising either but let's hope this is just a passing shower. Stick around for further updates.
... DAY 5, SESSION 2 ...
UPDATE - 6.32 pm IST (1.02 pm GMT) - Uh oh! It has started to rain and the covers have come on. A few minutes later, the drizzle has disappeared and the covers have come off. We should be getting underway with the post-Lunch session soon.
England needed wickets early this morning to keep their hopes alive in this game as their opponents were absolutely cruising towards the target. Chris Woakes was the man to provide them with the breakthrough as he drew first blood with the wicket of Warner. Things got better for the hosts when Woakes dismissed the other Aussie opener in his very next over to lift the morale of his teammates. Mark Wood managed to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne not too long after and it seemed like Australia were on a brink of a collapse. It has been Australia’s game though since the drinks break as Steven Smith remains unbeaten on 40 and Travis Head is giving him good company with 31 runs in his kitty. England still have seven wickets to get and it is the visitors who are currently favourites to pull off a record run-chase at this venue. Do join us at 6.35 pm IST (1.05 pm GMT) for the second session of the final day in this Ashes series.
SESSION SUMMARY - 102 runs and 3 wickets in 28 overs. A bit of controversy again towards the end of the session as this Ashes continues to give! This tie could still go either way still or we could even have the rain gods playing a crucial role in this fixture. Australia are inching towards the target as they hunt for their first series win in England since 2001 and they need 146 runs for victory but they did not start the day the way they would have liked. The Australian openers added 5 runs to the overnight score to take their partnership to 140 runs setting up a lovely platform for the Aussies to push for a win. However, they lost David Warner and Usman Khawaja in quick succession and Marnus Labuschagne edged one to slip within the first hour. Just when it looked like the hosts were on top, Steven Smith and Travis Head have put on a 69-run unbeaten partnership for the fourth wicket to settle any sort of nerves building in the dressing room.
End Of The Over 66 : 238/3
1 Runs
- 065.1
- 065.2
- 065.3
- 065.4
- 065.5
- 165.6
S. Smith
40 (61)
T. Head
31 (53)
M. Ali
9-0-33-0
65.6
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Floats this one full and just outside off. Steven Smith eases this down to long on for a single. That will be LUNCH on DAY 5!
65.5
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Flighted yet again, turning in, on middle and leg, Steven Smith clips it straight to mid-wicket.
65.4
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Continues to give the ball air and serves it on middle, Steven Smith gets behind the line and keeps it out.
65.3
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Tossed up again, at the stumps, Steven Smith blocks it out solidly.
65.2
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Floated up, turning in, on middle, Steven Smith works it with the turn on the leg side.
65.1
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Now then, what has happened here? Tossed up, turning in, on middle, Steven Smith lunges forward to defend. The ball lobs off the gloves of Smith and goes towards leg slip. Ben Stokes times the jump to perfection and takes a one-handed stunner. However, as he went to celebrate, his palm hit his knee and the ball popped out. England think they have got Steven Smith caught at leg slip but Ben Stokes does not seem convinced. He still goes for the review though. The third umpire deems that Stokes was not in control of the catch and adjudges it as not out. Boos ring around the Kennington Oval and the English players are bemused as well.
End Of The Over 65 : 237/3
1 Runs
- 164.1
- 064.2
- 064.3
- 064.4
- 064.5
- 064.6
T. Head
31 (53)
S. Smith
39 (55)
M. Wood
9-0-34-1
64.6
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Another shortish delivery, angled across by Wood, Travis Head drops his hands and lets it go through to Jonny Bairstow.
64.5
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Comes from over the wicket this time, short and on off, Travis Head sways away and leaves the ball alone.
64.4
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Slightly back of a length, around off, Travis Head stays on the back foot and pushes it away from the body towards cover.
64.3
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Directs another bumper, but this time at the batter, Travis Head rises and does well to keep it out down the wicket.
64.2
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Switches to 'round the wicket and bowls a bumper, on middle, Travis Head ducks underneath and leaves the ball alone.
64.1
1
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
Back of a length, on middle by Wood, Steven Smith hangs back and pulls it to deep backward square leg for a single.
End Of The Over 64 : 236/3
5 Runs
- 063.1
- 063.2
- 463.3
- 063.4
- 063.5
- 163.6
S. Smith
38 (54)
T. Head
31 (48)
M. Ali
8-0-32-0
63.6
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Full again, on middle, Steven Smith gets forward and strokes it down to long on for a single.
63.5
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Loops it up, full on middle, Steven Smith gets to the pitch of the ball and pushes it to short leg.
63.4
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Flighted delivery, on off, Steven Smith goes back in his crease and blocks it out.
63.3
4
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
FOUR! Steven Smith gets it away this time! Pushed through, on middle, Steven Smith is up to the task as he helps it through short fine leg for a boundary.
63.2
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Full and tossed up, at the stumps, Steven Smith plants his foot forward and defends it to short mid-wicket.
63.1
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Floated up, on middle and leg, slower as well, Steven Smith works it towards backward square leg.
End Of The Over 63 : 231/3
6 Runs
- 162.1
- 462.2
- 062.3
- 162.4
- 062.5
- 062.6
T. Head
31 (48)
S. Smith
33 (48)
M. Wood
8-0-33-1
62.6
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Back of a length but a bit down leg, Travis Head does think of helping it fine on the leg side but decides against it.
62.5
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
From over the wicket, banged in short, on middle, Travis Head ducks and leaves the ball alone.
62.4
1
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
Another bumper, directed at the batter, Steven Smith hooks it down to fine leg for one.
62.3
0
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
Bangs it in short, on middle, Steven Smith ducks underneath and lets the ball go through to the keeper. Wood falls over in his follow through but no harm done.
62.2
4
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
FOUR! Nicely driven! Wood goes full this time, on off, Steven Smith stays in his crease and drives it through the vacant mid off region for a boundary.
62.1
1
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Persists with short length, on middle, Travis Head gets on his toes and fends it through the vacant point region for a boundary.
End Of The Over 62 : 225/3
2 Runs
- 061.1
- 161.2
- 061.3
- 061.4
- 161.5
- 061.6
S. Smith
28 (45)
T. Head
30 (45)
M. Ali
7-0-27-0
61.6
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Full and turning in, on off and middle, Steven Smith takes a stride forward to defend. The ball spins in and strikes the front pad of Smith.
61.5
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Drifts on the pads, on a full length, Travis Head gets down and sweeps it hard towards deep backward square leg for a single.
61.4
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Fullish delivery, on leg, Travis Head jams this one out to the left of the bowler.
61.3
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Angled in, on off, fraction short, the ball does keep a bit low and Travis Head does well to keep it out on the off side.
61.2
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Tossed up, on off, Steven Smith gets on the front foot and strokes it through mid on for a single.
61.1
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Flatter, outside off, Steven Smith goes back and defends it down the wicket.
End Of The Over 61 : 223/3
2 Runs
- 160.1
- 060.2
- 160.3
- 060.4
- 060.5
- 060.6
T. Head
29 (42)
S. Smith
27 (42)
M. Wood
7-0-27-1
60.6
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Switches to 'round the wicket and goes short, on middle, Travis Head stays on the back foot and fends it towards silly point.
60.5
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Angled across, short and outside off, Travis Head gets his gloves out of the way and lets the ball go.
60.4
0
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Continues to bowl into the wicket, on middle, Travis Head gets on top of the bounce and keeps it out on the off side.
60.3
1
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
Keeps it short again, on middle, Steven Smith stands tall and pulls it to fine leg for a single.
60.2
0
Mark Wood To Steven Smith
Goes short again, on middle, the ball does not rise as expected, Steven Smith ducks underneath and lets it go.
60.1
1
Mark Wood To Travis Head
Bends his back and bangs it in, short at the batter, Travis Head fends it a bit awkwardly and gets it through the vacant leg slip region for a single.
End Of The Over 60 : 221/3
6 Runs
- 459.1
- 059.2
- 159.3
- 059.4
- 159.5
- 059.6
S. Smith
26 (40)
T. Head
28 (38)
M. Ali
6-0-25-0
59.6
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Short and turning in sharply, on leg, Steven Smith looks to clip it away but does not make any contact with the bat. The batters run two as the ball rolls off the pads to the fine leg fence. The umpire reckons that Smith did not play a shot and signals a dead ball.
59.5
1
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Drops it short and on off, Travis Head rocks back and eases it on the off side for a single.
59.4
0
Moeen Ali To Travis Head
Flighted delivery, full and at the stumps, Travis Head pushes it back to Ali.
59.3
1
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Inside edge but no harm done! Fraction short and around off, turning in, Steven Smith shuffles to defend. The ball keeps a bit low and Smith gets an inside edge. Luckily for him, the ball sneaks past the stumps for a single.
59.2
0
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
Gives the ball air again, on off, Steven Smith defends it with soft hands on the leg side.
59.1
4
Moeen Ali To Steven Smith
FOUR! Steven Smith welcomes Moeen Ali with a boundary! Starts with a loosener, full and outside off, Steven Smith gets on the front foot and creams the drive through wide mid off for a boundary.
End Of The Over 59 : 215/3
4 Runs
- 058.1
- 058.2
- 458.3
- 058.4
- 058.5
- 058.6
T. Head
27 (36)
S. Smith
21 (36)
S. Broad
14-3-40-0
58.6
0
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
Fuller and angling in, in the channel on off, Travis Head prods forward and keeps it out on the off side.
58.5
0
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
Bends his back and bangs it in short, down leg, Travis Head swivels in the crease to hook it away but misses. Jonny Bairstow dives to his right and pouches it safely. A couple of slip fielders go up in appeal but the umpire is unmoved.
58.4
0
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
Continues to go full and on off, Travis Head times the drive straight to cover.
58.3
4
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
FOUR! A gift by Broad and Head accepts it gleefully! Strays on the pads, on a full length, Travis Head brings his wrists into play and clips it aerially but in the gap towards deep backward square leg for a boundary.
58.2
0
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
Much straighter this time, on a good length, on off and middle, Travis Head gets behind the line and blocks it out.
58.1
0
Stuart Broad To Travis Head
Another beauty by Stuart Broad! Makes use of the angle again from 'round the wicket, on a length, just outside off, Travis Head gets on the front foot to defend. The ball straightens after pitching and goes past the outside edge.
End Of The Over 58 : 211/3
1 Runs
- 057.1
- 057.2
- 057.3
- 057.4
- 157.5
- 057.6
S. Smith
21 (36)
T. Head
23 (30)
J. Anderson
14-4-53-0
57.6
0
James Anderson To Steven Smith
Close! On a back of a length, shaping away, outside off, Steven Smith looks to leave the ball alone but he keeps his bat hanging. The ball rolls off the bottom part of the bat towards the keeper.
57.5
1
James Anderson To Travis Head
Great stop by Mark Wood! Shaping in, full, on middle, Travis Head drives it firmly and to the right of mid on. Mark Wood stationed there dives to his right and keeps it to one.
57.4
0
James Anderson To Travis Head
Switches to back of a length, on middle, Travis Head gets on his toes and tries to work it across the line. Gets an inside edge onto the thigh pad.
57.3
0
James Anderson To Travis Head
Hurls it full this time, outside off, Travis Head does not chase the delivery and lets it go.
57.2
0
James Anderson To Travis Head
Much tighter this time, on a hard length, on off, Travis Head punches it off the back foot towards cover.
57.1
0
James Anderson To Travis Head
Comes from over the wicket and angles it across, on a good length, outside off, Travis Head watchfully lets it go.
End Of The Over 57 : 210/3
4 Runs
- 456.1
- 056.2
- 056.3
- 056.4
- 056.5
- 056.6