England’s batting puts Australia in a difficult position in the Fifth Ashes Test

Australia’s quest for an Ashes series victory in England remains elusive as the home team’s aggressive batting on day three of the fifth Test at The Oval left the Aussies with a daunting task ahead. The day ended with England amassing a commanding total of 9-389, setting a record-breaking lead of 377 runs.

The day’s play was highlighted by England’s explosive batting, as they maintained a run rate of around five runs per over. A formidable partnership of 110 runs between Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow for the fifth wicket laid a solid foundation for the hosts. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett also contributed significantly, erasing Australia’s 12-run deficit in just six balls.

Australia’s bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins, struggled to break the partnerships and set the tone for the day. Former Test skippers Ricky Ponting and Mark Taylor were critical of Cummins and the bowling tactics employed by the Aussies. Stuart Broad, who announced his retirement after the match, further capitalised on Australia’s inconsistent bowling to add valuable runs to England’s total.

The Australian fielding also came under scrutiny as missed opportunities and ineffective field placements allowed England’s batsmen to dominate freely. England’s ability to score boundaries on the leg side, especially against deliveries on the pads, added to the frustrations of the Australian team.

Despite some late wickets from Cummins and Mitchell Starc, England’s lead crossed the 300-run mark before tea, putting the visitors on the back foot. Root’s aggressive stroke play and Bairstow’s resilience thwarted Australia’s attempts to regain control of the game.

However, the day wasn’t without its moments for the Australian team. Cummins found his rhythm and discipline, taking crucial wickets and dismissing Crawley, who was playing brilliantly until then. At one stage, Australia managed to pick up four quick wickets, giving them a glimpse of hope in the game.

As the day concluded, Anderson and Broad put on a solid partnership to extend England’s lead even further. Anderson, celebrating his 41st birthday, showcased his determination with an impressive reverse sweep shot and a slog sweep to mid-wicket, much to the delight of the crowd.

Absolutely brilliant from Root! #Ashes pic.twitter.com/2aqyDJJt6K

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) July 29, 2023

With England’s lead of 377 runs, Australia faces an uphill battle to secure victory in the final innings. The highest successful run chase at The Oval is 263, making the required target a record-breaking one. The likes of Steve Smith, David Warner, and the injured Nathan Lyon will need a monumental effort to overturn the game in Australia’s favour.

With only one day of play remaining, Australia’s hopes of winning an Ashes series in England within the four-year mission are fading. England’s aggressive batting display has put them in a dominant position, leaving Australia with a formidable task to achieve the historic win they desire.

With the third day of the fifth test being an all England battle it has placed Australia as a $4.03 chance to claim the series with the top cricket betting sites.

More sports & gambling news