Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour. British media reported that the squad's concerns over Covid conditions were resolved at a meeting between the countries' cricket boards and England captain Joe Root on Tuesday (October 5).&nbsp;

The Daily Telegraph reported that Root has confirmed his participation in the five-Test series at the meeting and will likely be joined by a full-strength squad. Although, there isn't any official statement over the tour.&nbsp;

England players had sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series over the Christmas and New Year period. The series is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ian-botham-questions-england-desire-for-ultimate-ashes-test-418714">Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test</a>

Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour.&nbsp;

Recently, Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead after players like Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad expressed concerns.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Australia's one-day international captain Aaron Finch said he sympathised "fully" with England players' concerns but was glad to hear a resolution had been reached.

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"They’ve played a lot of test cricket so I can understand where they’re coming from," Finch told reporters on Wednesday in a video call.

"Guys are on the road for a lot longer than what tours used to go (for) when you’re adding on quarantine at the start and potentially at the end. That is difficult but it’s great to see Joe’s (Root) supported that and they’re going to come down," Finch added.&nbsp;

Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.&nbsp;

Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour.

Despite some England players expressing concerns over the upcoming Ashes series due to strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia, England have committed to the tour. British media reported that the squad's concerns over Covid conditions were resolved at a meeting between the countries' cricket boards and England captain Joe Root on Tuesday (October 5). The Daily Telegraph reported that Root has confirmed his participation in the five-Test series at the meeting and will likely be joined by a full-strength squad. Although, there isn't any official statement over the tour. England players had sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series over the Christmas and New Year period. The series is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. Australia. ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour. Recently, Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead after players like Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad expressed concerns. On the other hand, Australia's one-day international captain Aaron Finch said he sympathised "fully" with England players' concerns but was glad to hear a resolution had been reached. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style "They’ve played a lot of test cricket so I can understand where they’re coming from," Finch told reporters on Wednesday in a video call. "Guys are on the road for a lot longer than what tours used to go (for) when you’re adding on quarantine at the start and potentially at the end. That is difficult but it’s great to see Joe’s (Root) supported that and they’re going to come down," Finch added. Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.

Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report

Ashes hero Ian Botham has questioned England players' desire to confront the "ultimate test" of touring Australia as cricket chiefs try to hammer out an agreement to allow the trip to go ahead.

England are due to play a five-Test series starting in Brisbane on December 8 but concerns over player welfare and Australia's strict coronavirus restrictions have plunged the tour into doubt.

Players are understood to harbour fears over quarantine, bubble environments and access for families, with even captain Joe Root refusing to commit so far.

The England and Wales Cricket Board will meet this week to decide whether the Ashes can go ahead, with reports suggesting there have been positive talks with Cricket Australia.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-reason-why-he-is-more-successful-gautam-gambhir-opens-up-on-virat-kohlis-playing-style-418690">'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style</a>

Botham, who triumphed in multiple Ashes campaigns and is recognised as one of England's greatest players, questioned the mentality of the current crop of cricketers.

"I start to wonder maybe if some of these guys don't fancy the ultimate test," the 65-year-old former all-rounder wrote in The Daily Telegraph.

"You have to worry about it. To play Test cricket for England is the ultimate and to play against Australia in Australia, and win, is magnificent.

"Australia don't lose very often in their own backyard. It's a challenge and if I was in their boots, I'd already have my bags packed."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/western-arrogance-michael-holding-slams-england-for-pulling-out-of-pakistan-tour-says-would-not-have-done-that-to-india-418704">'Western arrogance': Michael Holding slams England for pulling out of Pakistan tour, says 'would not have done that to India'</a>

Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid-19 pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour.

Multi-format England players potentially face months of travelling and living in biosecure bubbles. The T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starts on October 17 before the Ashes series in December and January.

Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.

Ashes hero Ian Botham has questioned England players' desire to confront the "ultimate test" of touring Australia as cricket chiefs try to hammer out an agreement to allow the trip to go ahead.

Ashes hero Ian Botham has questioned England players' desire to confront the "ultimate test" of touring Australia as cricket chiefs try to hammer out an agreement to allow the trip to go ahead. England are due to play a five-Test series starting in Brisbane on December 8 but concerns over player welfare and Australia's strict coronavirus restrictions have plunged the tour into doubt. Players are understood to harbour fears over quarantine, bubble environments and access for families, with even captain Joe Root refusing to commit so far. The England and Wales Cricket Board will meet this week to decide whether the Ashes can go ahead, with reports suggesting there have been positive talks with Cricket Australia. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style Botham, who triumphed in multiple Ashes campaigns and is recognised as one of England's greatest players, questioned the mentality of the current crop of cricketers. "I start to wonder maybe if some of these guys don't fancy the ultimate test," the 65-year-old former all-rounder wrote in The Daily Telegraph. "You have to worry about it. To play Test cricket for England is the ultimate and to play against Australia in Australia, and win, is magnificent. "Australia don't lose very often in their own backyard. It's a challenge and if I was in their boots, I'd already have my bags packed." ALSO READ | 'Western arrogance': Michael Holding slams England for pulling out of Pakistan tour, says 'would not have done that to India' Australia has largely sealed its borders to international travellers during the Covid-19 pandemic but Prime Minister Scott Morrison said it would be "flexible and practical" over the tour. Multi-format England players potentially face months of travelling and living in biosecure bubbles. The T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starts on October 17 before the Ashes series in December and January. Australia are the current holders of the Ashes after retaining the urn following a 2-2 draw in England in 2019. They won the last series "Down Under" 4-0 in 2017/18.

Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test

Former England skipper Andrew Strauss said that the Ashes against Australia should go ahead as planned because the showpiece Test series means a lot to a lot of people. The series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8, looks doubtful as a few England players are sceptical and expressed their concerns over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia.&nbsp;

Some players have even sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series. In Australia, international arrivals have to undergo a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

Now, Strauss has said that according to him, the Ashes "need to go ahead". "We are learning to live with Covid in this country and Australia is in a slightly different place. But the Ashes means a lot to a lot of people, and some of them are people that are going through a tough time themselves," he was quoted by Daily Mail.&nbsp;

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"It defies belief that all these other sports are taking place and that the Ashes doesn’t take place. There is a way of making it happen and I think we are moving in the right direction. I think there will be accommodations made and that families will get out there," he added.&nbsp;

England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are some players who have openly expressed concerns. "Personally, I think if you are selected on an Ashes tour, you should go. An Ashes tour is not the one to pull out of, in my opinion. But I understand that everyone sees things slightly differently," Strauss said.&nbsp;

"But I think that between Cricket Australia, the Australian government and the ECB, they will find a way that works for both the players and their families," Strauss further added.&nbsp;

Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine.&nbsp;

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His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

Strauss further said that he feels if the series will happen, England team will face some odds, he said, "I think we are going to have to play a lot better than we did this summer, put it that way."

"Our top order needs to function better than it has done for a long time. 
‘Playing against the new ball in Australia is a very tough thing to do. There will be a lot of responsibility on our bowling attack. Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad will have a role to play but we can’t just rely on them to win us the Ashes," he added.&nbsp;

Former England skipper Andrew Strauss said that the Ashes against Australia should go ahead as planned because the showpiece Test series means a lot to a lot of people.

Former England skipper Andrew Strauss said that the Ashes against Australia should go ahead as planned because the showpiece Test series means a lot to a lot of people. The series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8, looks doubtful as a few England players are sceptical and expressed their concerns over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia. Some players have even sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series. In Australia, international arrivals have to undergo a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated. Now, Strauss has said that according to him, the Ashes "need to go ahead". "We are learning to live with Covid in this country and Australia is in a slightly different place. But the Ashes means a lot to a lot of people, and some of them are people that are going through a tough time themselves," he was quoted by Daily Mail. ALSO READ | Jurgen Klopp slams unvaccinated players, compares anti-vax movement to drink driving "It defies belief that all these other sports are taking place and that the Ashes doesn’t take place. There is a way of making it happen and I think we are moving in the right direction. I think there will be accommodations made and that families will get out there," he added. England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are some players who have openly expressed concerns. "Personally, I think if you are selected on an Ashes tour, you should go. An Ashes tour is not the one to pull out of, in my opinion. But I understand that everyone sees things slightly differently," Strauss said. "But I think that between Cricket Australia, the Australian government and the ECB, they will find a way that works for both the players and their families," Strauss further added. Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine. ALSO READ | 'A plot involving Bill Gates': Premier League players have bizarre 'conspiracy theories' about Covid and vaccines His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Strauss further said that he feels if the series will happen, England team will face some odds, he said, "I think we are going to have to play a lot better than we did this summer, put it that way." "Our top order needs to function better than it has done for a long time. ‘Playing against the new ball in Australia is a very tough thing to do. There will be a lot of responsibility on our bowling attack. Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad will have a role to play but we can’t just rely on them to win us the Ashes," he added.

'Ashes means a lot to a lot of people': Andrew Strauss feels showpiece Test series should go ahead

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain&nbsp;Tim&nbsp;Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.&nbsp; Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-punam-raut-walks-off-despite-being-given-not-out-in-pink-ball-test-against-australia-watch-417426">India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH</a>

"The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart.

"It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not.

"No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come."

Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted.

"Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-inability-to-play-bilateral-cricket-against-india-has-cost-them-millions-of-dollars-former-england-captain-417349">Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain</a>

Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything."

"We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added.&nbsp;

Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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To be fair to <a href="https://twitter.com/tdpaine36?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tdpaine36</a>, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! 
Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1443875025409527820?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine.&nbsp;

His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.&nbsp;

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions. Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated. England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. ALSO READ | India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH "The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart. "It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not. "No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come." Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted. "Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions." ALSO READ | Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything." "We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added. Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!" To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 1, 2021 × Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine. His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.

Tim Paine says Ashes going ahead, with or without Joe Root, slams 'expert on everything' Kevin Pietersen

Glenn Maxwell and Alex Carey both hit brilliant hundreds as Australia sealed a dramatic series win over world champions England in the third one-day international at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-owner-debuts-in-afghanistans-shpageeza-cricket-league-gets-banned-for-misbehaviour-by-acb-327993" hreflang="en">Team owner debuts in Afghanistan's Shpageeza Cricket League, gets banned for misbehaviour by ACB</a>

Australia, chasing a target of 303, were all but out of the game at 73-5 when Maxwell came to the crease.

But an Australia record sixth-wicket stand of 212 between Carey (106) and Maxwell (108) helped give the tourists a 2-1 success as England suffered their first home ODI series defeat in five years.

Earlier, Jonny Bairstow had revived England from the depths of 0-2 with a superb hundred that saw them to 302-7 after the opener watched from the other end as left-arm quick Mitchell Starc removed Jason Roy and Test captain Joe Root with the first two balls of the game.

Sam Billings (57) and Chris Woakes (53 not out) also hit valuable fifties.

Maxwell's hundred was just his second century in 113 matches at this level, with Carey's innings the wicketkeeper's maiden century in his 39th ODI.

But when Maxwell holed out off leg-spinner Adil Rashid, Australia still needed 18 off 15 balls. That became 10 off six when Carey, whose century came off 106 balls, was superbly caught by a diving Mark Wood at third man off Jofra Archer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mitchell-starc-rattles-england-with-successive-dismissal-of-jason-roy-joe-root-327952" hreflang="en">Watch: Mitchell Starc rattles England with successive dismissal of Jason Roy, Joe Root</a>

New batsman Starc, however, hit his first ball, from Rashid, for six and sealed victory with two balls to spare with a four.

"It probably wasn't the ideal situation when I came in but being the last batter, I suppose I had a bit of license to go for it right from the start," Maxwell told Sky Sports.&nbsp;

"We thought if we could take it as deep as we could, myself and Alex, we might be a chance at the back end."

England captain Eoin Morgan said Australia were "too good for us", adding: "To lose two wickets for no runs and then post over 300 is a huge positive for us. I think Jonny Bairstow was outstanding today.

"Carey and Maxwell played outstandingly well."

England were left to rue the Carey being caught on nine off an Archer no-ball as they ended a coronavirus-hit season by suffering their first series defeat in 18 matches across all formats.

Australia's success was all the more creditable as star batsman Steve Smith missed all three matches after suffering a head injury batting in the nets.

Pace bowler Woakes took the first two wickets early in Australia's chase, having captain Aaron Finch lbw and Marcus Stoinis caught off a leading edge at midwicket.

And Australia were 55-4 when Morgan saw his decision to bring on Root rewarded by the occasional off-spinner taking two wickets for three runs in six balls.

Root clean bowled David Warner (24) with a fine delivery that angled into the left-hander before turning sharply away.

He then had all-rounder Mitchell Marsh spooning a simple catch to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.

And when Marnus Labuschagne was run out, Australia were 73-5 in the 17th over.

But the big-hitting Maxwell, the last of Australia's recognised batsmen, took advantage of a short boundary and brought up an 84-ball hundred with his seventh six, off medium-pacer Tom Curran.

Morgan won the toss and batted on a fresh pitch.

But from the first ball, Roy edged a drive off Starc to backward point.

Next ball, Starc had Root lbw with an inswinger, the batsman not bothering with a review.

Left-hander Morgan survived the hat-trick before Billings gave Bairstow excellent support, completing a 53-ball fifty before he became one of three wickets for in-form leg-spinner Adam Zampa.

Bairstow went to his century in style with a legside six off a 90 mph delivery from Pat Cummins.

Bairstow's tenth century in 83 ODIs came from 116 balls, including 10 fours and two sixes, before he was bowled by Cummins's slower ball.

Glenn Maxwell and Alex Carey both hit brilliant hundreds as Australia sealed a dramatic series win over world champions England in the third one-day international at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Glenn Maxwell and Alex Carey both hit brilliant hundreds as Australia sealed a dramatic series win over world champions England in the third one-day international at Old Trafford on Wednesday. Also read: Team owner debuts in Afghanistan's Shpageeza Cricket League, gets banned for misbehaviour by ACB Australia, chasing a target of 303, were all but out of the game at 73-5 when Maxwell came to the crease. But an Australia record sixth-wicket stand of 212 between Carey (106) and Maxwell (108) helped give the tourists a 2-1 success as England suffered their first home ODI series defeat in five years. Earlier, Jonny Bairstow had revived England from the depths of 0-2 with a superb hundred that saw them to 302-7 after the opener watched from the other end as left-arm quick Mitchell Starc removed Jason Roy and Test captain Joe Root with the first two balls of the game. Sam Billings (57) and Chris Woakes (53 not out) also hit valuable fifties. Maxwell's hundred was just his second century in 113 matches at this level, with Carey's innings the wicketkeeper's maiden century in his 39th ODI. But when Maxwell holed out off leg-spinner Adil Rashid, Australia still needed 18 off 15 balls. That became 10 off six when Carey, whose century came off 106 balls, was superbly caught by a diving Mark Wood at third man off Jofra Archer. Also read: Watch: Mitchell Starc rattles England with successive dismissal of Jason Roy, Joe Root New batsman Starc, however, hit his first ball, from Rashid, for six and sealed victory with two balls to spare with a four. "It probably wasn't the ideal situation when I came in but being the last batter, I suppose I had a bit of license to go for it right from the start," Maxwell told Sky Sports. "We thought if we could take it as deep as we could, myself and Alex, we might be a chance at the back end." England captain Eoin Morgan said Australia were "too good for us", adding: "To lose two wickets for no runs and then post over 300 is a huge positive for us. I think Jonny Bairstow was outstanding today. "Carey and Maxwell played outstandingly well." England were left to rue the Carey being caught on nine off an Archer no-ball as they ended a coronavirus-hit season by suffering their first series defeat in 18 matches across all formats. Australia's success was all the more creditable as star batsman Steve Smith missed all three matches after suffering a head injury batting in the nets. Pace bowler Woakes took the first two wickets early in Australia's chase, having captain Aaron Finch lbw and Marcus Stoinis caught off a leading edge at midwicket. And Australia were 55-4 when Morgan saw his decision to bring on Root rewarded by the occasional off-spinner taking two wickets for three runs in six balls. Root clean bowled David Warner (24) with a fine delivery that angled into the left-hander before turning sharply away. He then had all-rounder Mitchell Marsh spooning a simple catch to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. And when Marnus Labuschagne was run out, Australia were 73-5 in the 17th over. But the big-hitting Maxwell, the last of Australia's recognised batsmen, took advantage of a short boundary and brought up an 84-ball hundred with his seventh six, off medium-pacer Tom Curran. Morgan won the toss and batted on a fresh pitch. But from the first ball, Roy edged a drive off Starc to backward point. Next ball, Starc had Root lbw with an inswinger, the batsman not bothering with a review. Left-hander Morgan survived the hat-trick before Billings gave Bairstow excellent support, completing a 53-ball fifty before he became one of three wickets for in-form leg-spinner Adam Zampa. Bairstow went to his century in style with a legside six off a 90 mph delivery from Pat Cummins. Bairstow's tenth century in 83 ODIs came from 116 balls, including 10 fours and two sixes, before he was bowled by Cummins's slower ball.

Centurions Maxwell and Carey star as Australia clinch ODI series win over England

Australian captain Aaron Finch has expressed his concerns surrounding the mental health of cricketers as they would be playing all the upcoming series and tournaments while staying confined to bio-secure bubble amid COVID-19 pandemic. While raising his concerns, Finch said that the mental health of players will be tested over the next two years with the Australian staff working hard to prepare players for the challenges.&nbsp;

Finch will lead a 21-man squad for the England tour consisting three T20Is and as many ODIs starting September 4. While the T20Is will be played in Southampton, the ODI series is set to be hosted by Manchester.&nbsp;

Along with Finch, some of the high profile names in the Australian squad will head to the United Arab Emirates for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 before returning to Australia in a bid to prepare for India’s tour.

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However, players movement will be heavily restricted to curb the spread of COVID-19 and that could take a toll on the mental well-being of players.&nbsp;

“I definitely feel it’s going to be a real issue and a real factor over the next couple of years, in particular,” Finch told reporters in a video call.

“It’s going to be something to monitor heavily. Because it could be a few months that guys are in these bio-bubbles and being stuck in a hotel room by yourself for a couple of weeks on end - or four-five months ... that could be really tough.”

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Finch confirmed that Australia’s sports psychologist Michael Llyod has chalked out plans for players and was talking about recongnising “when things might be a little bit off”.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old opener added that players were on notice about adhering to biosecurity protocols, a month after England paceman Jofra Archer was sanctioned for a breach during the test series against West Indies.

“We’ve been really strong with the guys in the last couple of weeks .... Because at the end of the day, if that falls over then we’re all out of jobs.” 
&nbsp;

Australian captain Aaron Finch has expressed his concerns surrounding the mental health of cricketers as they would be playing all the upcoming series and tournaments while staying confined to bio-secure bubble amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Australian captain Aaron Finch has expressed his concerns surrounding the mental health of cricketers as they would be playing all the upcoming series and tournaments while staying confined to bio-secure bubble amid COVID-19 pandemic. While raising his concerns, Finch said that the mental health of players will be tested over the next two years with the Australian staff working hard to prepare players for the challenges. Finch will lead a 21-man squad for the England tour consisting three T20Is and as many ODIs starting September 4. While the T20Is will be played in Southampton, the ODI series is set to be hosted by Manchester. Along with Finch, some of the high profile names in the Australian squad will head to the United Arab Emirates for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 before returning to Australia in a bid to prepare for India’s tour. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement However, players movement will be heavily restricted to curb the spread of COVID-19 and that could take a toll on the mental well-being of players. “I definitely feel it’s going to be a real issue and a real factor over the next couple of years, in particular,” Finch told reporters in a video call. “It’s going to be something to monitor heavily. Because it could be a few months that guys are in these bio-bubbles and being stuck in a hotel room by yourself for a couple of weeks on end - or four-five months ... that could be really tough.” ALSO READ: Breaking taboo, IPL's Rajasthan Royals get sanitary pad sponsor Finch confirmed that Australia’s sports psychologist Michael Llyod has chalked out plans for players and was talking about recongnising “when things might be a little bit off”. The 33-year-old opener added that players were on notice about adhering to biosecurity protocols, a month after England paceman Jofra Archer was sanctioned for a breach during the test series against West Indies. “We’ve been really strong with the guys in the last couple of weeks .... Because at the end of the day, if that falls over then we’re all out of jobs.”

Australia's Aaron Finch raises concerns about mental health of players in 'bio-secure bubbles'

Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible.

There was speculation the tour could be delayed until September but Warner was doubtful it would go ahead.

"At the moment it's highly unlikely we're going to go over there given what's happened in England," Warner told cricket.com.au.

He said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's infection with COVID-19 showed the gravity of the problem in the host nation.

"He's back up on his feet now and that's fantastic news, but there's a lot more to this than just sport being played," Warner added.

Australia have already cancelled a two-Test tour of Bangladesh in June, and a limited-overs home series against Zimbabwe is also in doubt.

Australia are due to host the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November, for which the International Cricket Council has said it is "exploring all options".

Cricket Australia is particularly keen to go ahead with a Test series against India due to be played after the T20 tournament, warning this month it could lose hundreds of millions of dollars if it was scrapped.

Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible.

Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible. There was speculation the tour could be delayed until September but Warner was doubtful it would go ahead. "At the moment it's highly unlikely we're going to go over there given what's happened in England," Warner told cricket.com.au. He said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's infection with COVID-19 showed the gravity of the problem in the host nation. "He's back up on his feet now and that's fantastic news, but there's a lot more to this than just sport being played," Warner added. Australia have already cancelled a two-Test tour of Bangladesh in June, and a limited-overs home series against Zimbabwe is also in doubt. Australia are due to host the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November, for which the International Cricket Council has said it is "exploring all options". Cricket Australia is particularly keen to go ahead with a Test series against India due to be played after the T20 tournament, warning this month it could lose hundreds of millions of dollars if it was scrapped.

Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption.

The former Australia captain enjoyed a remarkable series in England, scoring a total of 774 runs in just seven innings and played a pivotal role in his side's two victories in the drawn series.

The catch by Ben Stokes that sent Smith on his way on Sunday ended an astonishing run of scores -- 144 and 142 at Edgbaston, 92 at Lords, 211 and 82 at Old Trafford, and 80 and 23 at the Oval.

The 30-year-old made his official return to international cricket in June at the World Cup after serving a year-long ban for ball-tampering and was booed by the crowd in Bristol.

Smith had a decent campaign in the 50-over showpiece but did not set the world alight as Australia reached the semi-finals, where they were beaten by eventual champions England.

But he changed gear when the Ashes started, seemingly hungry to make up for lost time as he&nbsp;dominated the England attack, making two centuries in Australia's comfortable win in the first Test at Edgbaston.

Asked when he felt he was back to his best, an exhausted but "proud" Smith said&nbsp;it was after his first innings at Edgbaston, when he rescued his side, who had stumbled to 122-8.

"That gave me a lot of confidence," he said. "That was probably my favourite innings of the whole series that I played.

"The first Test match, as we know, is always incredibly important in an Ashes series and to sort of pull the team out of a bit of trouble at the time and give me that confidence straight up that I could slot back in and perform, that gave me a lot of confidence.

"It was a long 18 months out of the game and I've got a lot of people to thank, in particular my wife."

Smith's series was interrupted after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second Test at Lord's, forcing him to miss three innings.

Winning return

But he returned at Old Trafford to make a monumental double century in another victory for Australia.

His 80 in the first innings in the final Test at the Oval was his 10th consecutive fifty in Ashes Tests.

Australia were chasing 399 to win the series in London but it was always a tall order and Smith was unable to produce a miracle, falling for 23.

His run haul is fifth on the list of highest tallies in an Ashes series.

The man at the top of that list, inevitably, is his late compatriot Donald Bradman, who scored 974 in seven innings in 1930. But the fact that Smith is even in the same conversation as the man widely regarded as the greatest batsman in history is testament to his genius.

Smith averages 64.56 after 68 Tests, second only to Bradman in the all-time list.&nbsp;

Bradman himself averaged a mind-boggling 99.94 in his 52-Test career.

Regarded as the best "problem solver" in cricket today by Australia coach Justin Langer, Smith's batting is marked by an unorthodox shuffle across the crease and he is a fidgeter between deliveries, incessantly adjusting his pads and clothing.

But he has the ability of all great players to make batting look ridiculously easy and often appears to be playing a different game from his teammates.

Smith said he appreciated the reaction from the crowd in London, although he was disappointed not to have ended the series with a flourish.

"It was a nice reception as I walked off," he said. "It would have been nice if I'd had a few more runs under my belt in this game.

"I've given it my all since I've been here for the last four-and-a-half-months in every Test match that we've played and I didn't have much left to give today.

"I'm pretty cooked to be honest, mentally and physically. I'm looking forward to a nice couple of weeks' rest now before getting into the Australian summer."

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption.

Steve Smith returned to international cricket to a chorus of boos but he walked off the pitch at the Oval to a standing ovation after a summer of Ashes redemption. The former Australia captain enjoyed a remarkable series in England, scoring a total of 774 runs in just seven innings and played a pivotal role in his side's two victories in the drawn series. The catch by Ben Stokes that sent Smith on his way on Sunday ended an astonishing run of scores -- 144 and 142 at Edgbaston, 92 at Lords, 211 and 82 at Old Trafford, and 80 and 23 at the Oval. The 30-year-old made his official return to international cricket in June at the World Cup after serving a year-long ban for ball-tampering and was booed by the crowd in Bristol. Smith had a decent campaign in the 50-over showpiece but did not set the world alight as Australia reached the semi-finals, where they were beaten by eventual champions England. But he changed gear when the Ashes started, seemingly hungry to make up for lost time as he dominated the England attack, making two centuries in Australia's comfortable win in the first Test at Edgbaston. Asked when he felt he was back to his best, an exhausted but "proud" Smith said it was after his first innings at Edgbaston, when he rescued his side, who had stumbled to 122-8. "That gave me a lot of confidence," he said. "That was probably my favourite innings of the whole series that I played. "The first Test match, as we know, is always incredibly important in an Ashes series and to sort of pull the team out of a bit of trouble at the time and give me that confidence straight up that I could slot back in and perform, that gave me a lot of confidence. "It was a long 18 months out of the game and I've got a lot of people to thank, in particular my wife." Smith's series was interrupted after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second Test at Lord's, forcing him to miss three innings. Winning return But he returned at Old Trafford to make a monumental double century in another victory for Australia. His 80 in the first innings in the final Test at the Oval was his 10th consecutive fifty in Ashes Tests. Australia were chasing 399 to win the series in London but it was always a tall order and Smith was unable to produce a miracle, falling for 23. His run haul is fifth on the list of highest tallies in an Ashes series. The man at the top of that list, inevitably, is his late compatriot Donald Bradman, who scored 974 in seven innings in 1930. But the fact that Smith is even in the same conversation as the man widely regarded as the greatest batsman in history is testament to his genius. Smith averages 64.56 after 68 Tests, second only to Bradman in the all-time list. Bradman himself averaged a mind-boggling 99.94 in his 52-Test career. Regarded as the best "problem solver" in cricket today by Australia coach Justin Langer, Smith's batting is marked by an unorthodox shuffle across the crease and he is a fidgeter between deliveries, incessantly adjusting his pads and clothing. But he has the ability of all great players to make batting look ridiculously easy and often appears to be playing a different game from his teammates. Smith said he appreciated the reaction from the crowd in London, although he was disappointed not to have ended the series with a flourish. "It was a nice reception as I walked off," he said. "It would have been nice if I'd had a few more runs under my belt in this game. "I've given it my all since I've been here for the last four-and-a-half-months in every Test match that we've played and I didn't have much left to give today. "I'm pretty cooked to be honest, mentally and physically. I'm looking forward to a nice couple of weeks' rest now before getting into the Australian summer."

Steve Smith 'proud' after summer of Ashes redemption

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-can-be-proud-of-our-effort-says-tim-paine-after-retaining-ashes-249933">Australia</a> will return home having retained the coveted urn after their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-win-fifth-test-to-square-ashes-series-249870">2-2 drawn Ashes series</a> against England.

Smith's tally of 774 runs from seven innings with a Bradmanesque 110-plus average in a bowler-dominated series illustrates how he single-handedly carried Australia's run-scoring burden.

Marnus Labuschagne was the next Australian with 353, while Matthew Wade, with 337, was the only other Australian to have aggregated 200 or more.

"I have given it my all while I have been here for the last four-and-a-half months but I didn't have much more to give today," Smith told reporters on Sunday after England salvaged a win at The Oval to ensure the first drawn Ashes series since 1972.

"I was pretty cooked mentally and physically and I am looking forward to a couple of weeks off and heading back for the Australian summer."

England's two victories in the series came in a match Smith missed after a blow to his neck and one in which he scored his only sub-50 score of the series.

Smith's prolific run not only restored him at the top of Test batting rankings but also won over the hostile English fans, who booed him throughout the preceding World Cup and much of the Ashes series.

"It was a nice reception when I walked off, would have been nice to have a few more runs under my belt," Smith said after his dismissal for 23 in the second innings at The Oval.

Few expected the 30-year-old to rediscover the form he had shown before being banished to the sidelines for 12 months for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.

But he put to rest such fears by smashing a magnificent 144 on day one of the Edgbaston Test, scoring more than half of the team total of 284 in the series opener.

"First Test is always important in an Ashes series and to pull the team out of trouble gave me the confidence to know I could slot straight back in and perform," Smith said.

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured Australia will return home having retained the coveted urn after their 2-2 drawn Ashes series against England.

Run-machine Steve Smith described himself as being "pretty cooked" after his prolific bat ensured Australia will return home having retained the coveted urn after their 2-2 drawn Ashes series against England. Smith's tally of 774 runs from seven innings with a Bradmanesque 110-plus average in a bowler-dominated series illustrates how he single-handedly carried Australia's run-scoring burden. Marnus Labuschagne was the next Australian with 353, while Matthew Wade, with 337, was the only other Australian to have aggregated 200 or more. "I have given it my all while I have been here for the last four-and-a-half months but I didn't have much more to give today," Smith told reporters on Sunday after England salvaged a win at The Oval to ensure the first drawn Ashes series since 1972. "I was pretty cooked mentally and physically and I am looking forward to a couple of weeks off and heading back for the Australian summer." England's two victories in the series came in a match Smith missed after a blow to his neck and one in which he scored his only sub-50 score of the series. Smith's prolific run not only restored him at the top of Test batting rankings but also won over the hostile English fans, who booed him throughout the preceding World Cup and much of the Ashes series. "It was a nice reception when I walked off, would have been nice to have a few more runs under my belt," Smith said after his dismissal for 23 in the second innings at The Oval. Few expected the 30-year-old to rediscover the form he had shown before being banished to the sidelines for 12 months for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. But he put to rest such fears by smashing a magnificent 144 on day one of the Edgbaston Test, scoring more than half of the team total of 284 in the series opener. "First Test is always important in an Ashes series and to pull the team out of trouble gave me the confidence to know I could slot straight back in and perform," Smith said.

Prolific Steve Smith says 'pretty cooked' after Ashes effort

After retaining the Ashes, Australia skipper Tim Paine said that the team can be extremely proud of what they have achieved on the English soil.

His remarks came after the loss in the fifth and final Test by 135 runs against England. Despite the loss, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-win-fifth-test-to-square-ashes-series-249870">Australia retained the Ashes</a> as the series ended in a 2-2 draw.

The side retained the Ashes as they had previously won the series during the 2017/18 season. Paine has become the first Aussie captain since 2001 to have retained the urn in England.

"Steve had a great series and won a couple of Tests by himself, but we have got a couple of parts that we need to improve. As a whole series, we had a heap of good moments in a country where Australia hasn't had a lot of success for a long time. We can be proud of that," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Paine as saying.

"Taking the urn home was what we came here to do. We are thrilled by that. This game puts a bit of a dampener on it, but, overall, if you said we would be taking them (the Ashes) home, we would have jumped at that," he added.

Paine said that if the team continues to put up inspiring performances then the side can become very hard to team to beat."I still have a bit to give, but we are always trying to develop more leaders in our group and there is unfinished business - it's about getting better. If we can click them into gear when he (Smith) is at the height of his powers, and with the pace attack we have got, in the next few years we are going to be a hard team to beat," Paine said.

With England winning the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Oval, the series ended at a 2-2 scoreline, the first time in 47 years that the Men's Ashes has ended in a draw.

The last series which ended as a draw between England and Australia was in 1972. The series was hosted by England.

After being set a target of 399, Australia was bundled out for 263 runs in the final innings. Matthew Wade was the top-scorer for Aussies as he played a knock of 117 runs whereas Stuart Broad scalped four wickets for England.

Archer was given the Man of the Match award for scalping six wickets in the first innings of the match.

Aussie batter Steve Smith was given Australia's Man of the Series award whereas Ben Stokes was handed England`s Man of the Series award.

Smith had an exceptional series with the bat as he scored 774 runs, scoring the most number of runs in a series this century.

On the other hand, Ben Stokes displayed an all-round performance, scoring 440 runs with the bat and taking eight wickets with the ball.

The first Test of the series was won by Australia by 251 runs at Birmingham.

The second match at Lord's finished as a draw and Stokes's heroics in the third Test at Headingley helped England level the series at 1-1.

However, Australia came back strongly in the fourth Test as they won the match by 185 runs to retain the Ashes.

The team from Down Under will next face Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series.

After retaining the Ashes, Australia skipper Tim Paine said that the team can be extremely proud of what they have achieved on the English soil. His remarks came after the loss in the fifth and final Test by 135 runs against England.

After retaining the Ashes, Australia skipper Tim Paine said that the team can be extremely proud of what they have achieved on the English soil. His remarks came after the loss in the fifth and final Test by 135 runs against England. Despite the loss, Australia retained the Ashes as the series ended in a 2-2 draw. The side retained the Ashes as they had previously won the series during the 2017/18 season. Paine has become the first Aussie captain since 2001 to have retained the urn in England. "Steve had a great series and won a couple of Tests by himself, but we have got a couple of parts that we need to improve. As a whole series, we had a heap of good moments in a country where Australia hasn't had a lot of success for a long time. We can be proud of that," International Cricket Council (ICC) quoted Paine as saying. "Taking the urn home was what we came here to do. We are thrilled by that. This game puts a bit of a dampener on it, but, overall, if you said we would be taking them (the Ashes) home, we would have jumped at that," he added. Paine said that if the team continues to put up inspiring performances then the side can become very hard to team to beat."I still have a bit to give, but we are always trying to develop more leaders in our group and there is unfinished business - it's about getting better. If we can click them into gear when he (Smith) is at the height of his powers, and with the pace attack we have got, in the next few years we are going to be a hard team to beat," Paine said. With England winning the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Oval, the series ended at a 2-2 scoreline, the first time in 47 years that the Men's Ashes has ended in a draw. The last series which ended as a draw between England and Australia was in 1972. The series was hosted by England. After being set a target of 399, Australia was bundled out for 263 runs in the final innings. Matthew Wade was the top-scorer for Aussies as he played a knock of 117 runs whereas Stuart Broad scalped four wickets for England. Archer was given the Man of the Match award for scalping six wickets in the first innings of the match. Aussie batter Steve Smith was given Australia's Man of the Series award whereas Ben Stokes was handed England`s Man of the Series award. Smith had an exceptional series with the bat as he scored 774 runs, scoring the most number of runs in a series this century. On the other hand, Ben Stokes displayed an all-round performance, scoring 440 runs with the bat and taking eight wickets with the ball. The first Test of the series was won by Australia by 251 runs at Birmingham. The second match at Lord's finished as a draw and Stokes's heroics in the third Test at Headingley helped England level the series at 1-1. However, Australia came back strongly in the fourth Test as they won the match by 185 runs to retain the Ashes. The team from Down Under will next face Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series.

We can be proud of our effort, says Tim Paine after retaining Ashes

Jofra Archer took six wickets as England bowled Australia out for 225 to gain the upper hand on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test on Friday despite another Steve Smith masterclass.

Joe Root's team are desperate to level the series at 2-2 to end their historic World Cup-winning season on a high but have been consistently dogged by the peerless Smith.

The former Australian skipper has now amassed 751 runs in just six innings -- more than double the tally of the next highest runscorer on either side.

But he was forced to settle for his lowest score of the series — 80 — when Chris Woakes trapped him lbw in the evening session, leaving the sun-drenched Oval crowd dumbfounded.

Despite a late flurry of runs, Australia had to settle for a first-innings deficit of 69, with paceman Archer finishing with figures of 6-62.

Smith came to the crease with Australia in trouble at 14-2 in reply to England's first-innings total of 294 after Archer had removed openers David Warner and Marcus Harris.

Smith, who only returned to Test cricket last month following a year-long ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, was watchful at the start of his innings.

But he soon found his touch, bringing up his 10th consecutive Ashes fifty with a six over midwicket off left-arm spinner Jack Leach.

Smith appeared to be playing a completely different game from all the other batsmen but he had a lucky escape after tea when, on 66, he edged a Sam Curran delivery to Root in the slips, only for the England skipper to shell the chance.

Earlier, Warner, who was also banned over the ball-tampering scandal, was again dismissed for single figures, caught behind by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.

Jofra Archer took six wickets as England bowled Australia out for 225 to gain the upper hand on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test on Friday despite another Steve Smith masterclass.

Joe Root's team are desperate to level the series at 2-2 to end their historic World Cup-winning season on a high but have been consistently dogged by the peerless Smith.

The former Australian skipper has now amassed 751 runs in just six innings — more than double the tally of the next highest runscorer on either side.

But he was forced to settle for his lowest score of the series — 80 — when Chris Woakes trapped him lbw in the evening session, leaving the sun-drenched Oval crowd dumbfounded.

Despite a late flurry of runs, Australia had to settle for a first-innings deficit of 69, with paceman Archer finishing with figures of 6-62.

Smith came to the crease with Australia in trouble at 14-2 in reply to England's first-innings total of 294 after Archer had removed openers David Warner and Marcus Harris.

Smith, who only returned to Test cricket last month following a year-long ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, was watchful at the start of his innings.

But he soon found his touch, bringing up his 10th consecutive Ashes fifty with a six over midwicket off left-arm spinner Jack Leach.

Smith appeared to be playing a completely different game from all the other batsmen but he had a lucky escape after tea when, on 66, he edged a Sam Curran delivery to Root in the slips, only for the England skipper to shell the chance.

Earlier, Warner, who was also banned over the ball-tampering scandal, was again dismissed for single figures, caught behind by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.

Warner struggles

It was the eighth time that Warner had&nbsp;been dismissed in single figures in the series.

Archer then struck again with a 90-miles-per-hour thunderbolt, with Ben Stokes holding onto a sharp chance from Harris at second slip.

That dismissal brought Smith to the crease and he was immediately greeted with a&nbsp;sharp bouncer, much to the delight of the packed crowd.

Smith and Marcus Labuschagne repaired the early damage, putting on 69 for the third wicket before Archer struck again, trapping Labuschagne lbw for 48.

Matthew Wade was lbw to Sam Curran for 19 as Australia slipped to 118-4 but the unruffled Smith eased to his half-century off 91 balls.

Wickets tumbled after tea, with Archer removing Mitchell Marsh and Curran dismissing Australia captain Tim Paine and Pat Cummins in successive balls.

Smith's dismissal left Australia 187-8 but Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon played enterprisingly to add 37 for the ninth wicket, with Lyon smashing Woakes for a six over square leg.

Archer bowled Lyon while Rory Burns took a sensational catch to end Siddle's knock.

At the start of the day England added just 23 runs to their overnight score, with Jos Buttler out for 70.

Marsh took five wickets on his return to the Test side while Pat Cummins took three.

Australia won at Old Trafford last week to take a 2-1 lead in the series, meaning they will retain the Ashes urn regardless of the result at the Oval.

But they are hungry to wrap up their first series win in England since 2001.

Jofra Archer took six wickets as England bowled Australia out for 225 to gain the upper hand on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test on Friday despite another Steve Smith masterclass.

Jofra Archer took six wickets as England bowled Australia out for 225 to gain the upper hand on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test on Friday despite another Steve Smith masterclass. Joe Root's team are desperate to level the series at 2-2 to end their historic World Cup-winning season on a high but have been consistently dogged by the peerless Smith. The former Australian skipper has now amassed 751 runs in just six innings -- more than double the tally of the next highest runscorer on either side. But he was forced to settle for his lowest score of the series — 80 — when Chris Woakes trapped him lbw in the evening session, leaving the sun-drenched Oval crowd dumbfounded. Despite a late flurry of runs, Australia had to settle for a first-innings deficit of 69, with paceman Archer finishing with figures of 6-62. Smith came to the crease with Australia in trouble at 14-2 in reply to England's first-innings total of 294 after Archer had removed openers David Warner and Marcus Harris. Smith, who only returned to Test cricket last month following a year-long ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, was watchful at the start of his innings. But he soon found his touch, bringing up his 10th consecutive Ashes fifty with a six over midwicket off left-arm spinner Jack Leach. Smith appeared to be playing a completely different game from all the other batsmen but he had a lucky escape after tea when, on 66, he edged a Sam Curran delivery to Root in the slips, only for the England skipper to shell the chance. Earlier, Warner, who was also banned over the ball-tampering scandal, was again dismissed for single figures, caught behind by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. Jofra Archer took six wickets as England bowled Australia out for 225 to gain the upper hand on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test on Friday despite another Steve Smith masterclass. Joe Root's team are desperate to level the series at 2-2 to end their historic World Cup-winning season on a high but have been consistently dogged by the peerless Smith. The former Australian skipper has now amassed 751 runs in just six innings — more than double the tally of the next highest runscorer on either side. But he was forced to settle for his lowest score of the series — 80 — when Chris Woakes trapped him lbw in the evening session, leaving the sun-drenched Oval crowd dumbfounded. Despite a late flurry of runs, Australia had to settle for a first-innings deficit of 69, with paceman Archer finishing with figures of 6-62. Smith came to the crease with Australia in trouble at 14-2 in reply to England's first-innings total of 294 after Archer had removed openers David Warner and Marcus Harris. Smith, who only returned to Test cricket last month following a year-long ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, was watchful at the start of his innings. But he soon found his touch, bringing up his 10th consecutive Ashes fifty with a six over midwicket off left-arm spinner Jack Leach. Smith appeared to be playing a completely different game from all the other batsmen but he had a lucky escape after tea when, on 66, he edged a Sam Curran delivery to Root in the slips, only for the England skipper to shell the chance. Earlier, Warner, who was also banned over the ball-tampering scandal, was again dismissed for single figures, caught behind by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. Warner struggles It was the eighth time that Warner had been dismissed in single figures in the series. Archer then struck again with a 90-miles-per-hour thunderbolt, with Ben Stokes holding onto a sharp chance from Harris at second slip. That dismissal brought Smith to the crease and he was immediately greeted with a sharp bouncer, much to the delight of the packed crowd. Smith and Marcus Labuschagne repaired the early damage, putting on 69 for the third wicket before Archer struck again, trapping Labuschagne lbw for 48. Matthew Wade was lbw to Sam Curran for 19 as Australia slipped to 118-4 but the unruffled Smith eased to his half-century off 91 balls. Wickets tumbled after tea, with Archer removing Mitchell Marsh and Curran dismissing Australia captain Tim Paine and Pat Cummins in successive balls. Smith's dismissal left Australia 187-8 but Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon played enterprisingly to add 37 for the ninth wicket, with Lyon smashing Woakes for a six over square leg. Archer bowled Lyon while Rory Burns took a sensational catch to end Siddle's knock. At the start of the day England added just 23 runs to their overnight score, with Jos Buttler out for 70. Marsh took five wickets on his return to the Test side while Pat Cummins took three. Australia won at Old Trafford last week to take a 2-1 lead in the series, meaning they will retain the Ashes urn regardless of the result at the Oval. But they are hungry to wrap up their first series win in England since 2001.

Jofra Archer claims six wickets as England take charge of Ashes finale

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">failing to regain the Ashes</a>.

Stokes was included in an unchanged 13-man England squad announced Monday following a 185-run defeat in the fourth Test on Sunday that ensured Australia would keep hold of the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in the five-Test series.

Given the tight turnaround to a Test starting on Thursday, the lack of any changes is not altogether surprising.

It may well be, however, that national selector Ed Smith and his panel do make alterations for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with promising batsmen Dominic Sibley and Zak Crawley among those pushing for places.

Durham paceman Stokes, England's vice-captain, did not bowl in Australia's second innings at Old Trafford following a right shoulder injury sustained during his 11th over in the tourists' first innings.

If Stokes is unfit to bowl at the Oval in south London, he is expected to play as a specialist batsman.

Stokes has been a shining light amid an often fallible England batting line-up this series, scoring 115 not out in the drawn second Test at Lord's before his stunning unbeaten 135 secured a dramatic one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley.

England, if Stokes was selected purely as a batsman, would bring in a bowling all-rounder from within the squad in either Sam Curran, who would be playing on his Surrey home ground, or Chris Woakes.

Both Curran and Woakes missed out at Old Trafford.

If England coach Trevor Bayliss, in what will be his last Test before he leaves his post, and captain Joe Root bring in one of the pair, it would likely mean one of the struggling batsmen -- Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow or Jos Buttler -- making way.

England have been without James Anderson, their all-time leading wicket-taker, for most of this series after the 37-year-old paceman broke down with a calf injury having bowled just four overs during Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

England squad for fifth Test:

Rory Burns (Surrey), Joe Denly (Kent), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Sam Curran (Surrey)

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after failing to regain the Ashes.

England will assess star all-rounder Ben Stokes's fitness to bowl in this week's fifth Test with Australia at the Oval as they look for a consolation win after failing to regain the Ashes. Stokes was included in an unchanged 13-man England squad announced Monday following a 185-run defeat in the fourth Test on Sunday that ensured Australia would keep hold of the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in the five-Test series. Given the tight turnaround to a Test starting on Thursday, the lack of any changes is not altogether surprising. It may well be, however, that national selector Ed Smith and his panel do make alterations for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with promising batsmen Dominic Sibley and Zak Crawley among those pushing for places. Durham paceman Stokes, England's vice-captain, did not bowl in Australia's second innings at Old Trafford following a right shoulder injury sustained during his 11th over in the tourists' first innings. If Stokes is unfit to bowl at the Oval in south London, he is expected to play as a specialist batsman. Stokes has been a shining light amid an often fallible England batting line-up this series, scoring 115 not out in the drawn second Test at Lord's before his stunning unbeaten 135 secured a dramatic one-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley. England, if Stokes was selected purely as a batsman, would bring in a bowling all-rounder from within the squad in either Sam Curran, who would be playing on his Surrey home ground, or Chris Woakes. Both Curran and Woakes missed out at Old Trafford. If England coach Trevor Bayliss, in what will be his last Test before he leaves his post, and captain Joe Root bring in one of the pair, it would likely mean one of the struggling batsmen -- Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow or Jos Buttler -- making way. England have been without James Anderson, their all-time leading wicket-taker, for most of this series after the 37-year-old paceman broke down with a calf injury having bowled just four overs during Australia's 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston. England squad for fifth Test: Rory Burns (Surrey), Joe Denly (Kent), Joe Root (Yorkshire, capt), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire, wkt), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Sam Curran (Surrey)

England to assess Ben Stokes's bowling fitness for Ashes finale

After winning the fourth Test match against England and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">retaining the Ashes</a>, Australia batsmen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/take-steve-smith-out-it-would-be-very-similar-for-both-teams-joe-root-248583">Steve Smith</a> and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans.

Australia defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test. Steve Smith has been in a phenomenal form in the Ashes series and after missing the third Ashes Test match due to concussion, Smith made a scintillating return.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-how-australian-police-mock-england-after-aussies-retain-ashes-urn-248626">Australian police mock England cricket team after Aussies retain Ashes urn</a>

Smith scored 211 runs in the first inning and 82 in the second helping his side win the match. Moreover, Smith has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries.

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/steve_smith49/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Steve Smith</a> (@steve_smith49) on <time datetime="2019-09-09T09:53:44+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 9, 2019 at 2:53am PDT</time>
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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidwarner31/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> David Warner</a> (@davidwarner31) on <time datetime="2019-09-09T10:53:17+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 9, 2019 at 3:53am PDT</time>
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However, Warner failed utterly in the fourth Ashes Test match as he was dismissed on a duck in both the innings.

Australia are now on a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play.

Australia and England will face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

After winning the fourth Test match against England and retaining the Ashes, Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans.

After winning the fourth Test match against England and retaining the Ashes, Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner shared their team's celebratory moments with the fans. Australia defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test. Steve Smith has been in a phenomenal form in the Ashes series and after missing the third Ashes Test match due to concussion, Smith made a scintillating return. Also Read: Australian police mock England cricket team after Aussies retain Ashes urn Smith scored 211 runs in the first inning and 82 in the second helping his side win the match. Moreover, Smith has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries. View this post on Instagram Ashes! 👋👌🙏 A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on Sep 9, 2019 at 2:53am PDT × View this post on Instagram #Ashes #retained A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) on Sep 9, 2019 at 3:53am PDT × However, Warner failed utterly in the fourth Ashes Test match as he was dismissed on a duck in both the innings. Australia are now on a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play. Australia and England will face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

Steve Smith and David Warner share celebratory moments after retaining Ashes

Australia and England have the oldest rivalry in cricket and fans of both countries have always been enthusiastic about voicing their opinions and as the team from Down Under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-retain-ashes-with-185-run-win-over-england-in-fourth-test-248509">retained the Ashes</a>, Australian Federal Police (AFP) jumped on the bandwagon to mock the Three Lions.

Aussies defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test to retain the Ashes.

"Good to see reports that a group of Australians in Manchester overnight have foiled the activities of a gang involved in a series of robberies targeting Aussies and Kiwis in England this Northern summer. You're welcome, @metpoliceuk," AFP tweeted on Monday.

In another tweet, AFP mocked England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who originally hails from New Zealand. They also took a jibe at the Three Lion's first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-new-zealand-to-win-the-cricket-world-cup-2019-title-235973">50-over World Cup triumph</a>.

England had won the World Cup after the boundary-countback rule came into play as both normal 50-overs and super over ended as a tie.

"This gang previously stole a valuable cup from the hands of some of our NZ neighbours in London, followed by one of their red-headed members attempting to wrestle an antique urn away from its rightful owners during a visit to Headingly," AFP tweeted.&nbsp;

They also mocked Ashes urn, tweeting "We are glad to see the urn is back where it belongs - even if the contents appear to be badly damaged by fire. Sorry @nzpolice, we understand that gang does not want to hand over the cup anytime soon".&nbsp;

The 30-year-old Steve Smith, who scored 82 runs in the second innings of the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes on Saturday, has been having an exceptional series. He has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries.&nbsp;

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We are glad to see the urn is back where it belongs – even if the contents appear to be badly damaged by fire. Sorry <a href="https://twitter.com/nzpolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nzpolice</a>, we understand that gang does not want to hand over the cup anytime soon.
— AFP (@AusFedPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusFedPolice/status/1170912606829211653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the first innings of the match, he scored a double ton, enabling Australia to post 497 on the board.

The team then bundled out England for 301 to gain a lead of 196 runs.&nbsp;

In the second innings, Australia was in a spot of bother at 44/4, but Smith played a vital 82-run knock to enable the side to declare at 186/6, setting England a target of 383 runs.&nbsp;

Paine was able to contribute himself in the second innings as he scored a half-century. He has become the first captain to retain the Ashes in England since Steve Waugh in 2001.&nbsp;

In the final innings, England's wickets kept on falling at regular intervals but Australia had to toil hard to take the final two wickets.

England was finally bundled out for 197 in the fourth innings. Pat Cummins took the maximum number of wickets as he scalped four batsmen.

Currently, Australia has a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play.

England and Australia next face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

Australia and England have the oldest rivalry in cricket and fans of both countries have always been enthusiastic about voicing their opinions and as the team from Down Under retained the Ashes, Australian Federal Police (AFP) jumped on the bandwagon to mock the Three Lions.

Australia and England have the oldest rivalry in cricket and fans of both countries have always been enthusiastic about voicing their opinions and as the team from Down Under retained the Ashes, Australian Federal Police (AFP) jumped on the bandwagon to mock the Three Lions. Aussies defeated England by 185 runs in the fourth Test to retain the Ashes. "Good to see reports that a group of Australians in Manchester overnight have foiled the activities of a gang involved in a series of robberies targeting Aussies and Kiwis in England this Northern summer. You're welcome, @metpoliceuk," AFP tweeted on Monday. In another tweet, AFP mocked England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who originally hails from New Zealand. They also took a jibe at the Three Lion's first 50-over World Cup triumph. England had won the World Cup after the boundary-countback rule came into play as both normal 50-overs and super over ended as a tie. "This gang previously stole a valuable cup from the hands of some of our NZ neighbours in London, followed by one of their red-headed members attempting to wrestle an antique urn away from its rightful owners during a visit to Headingly," AFP tweeted. They also mocked Ashes urn, tweeting "We are glad to see the urn is back where it belongs - even if the contents appear to be badly damaged by fire. Sorry @nzpolice, we understand that gang does not want to hand over the cup anytime soon". The 30-year-old Steve Smith, who scored 82 runs in the second innings of the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes on Saturday, has been having an exceptional series. He has amassed 671 runs and has become the second-fastest batsman to register 26 Test centuries. We are glad to see the urn is back where it belongs – even if the contents appear to be badly damaged by fire. Sorry @nzpolice, we understand that gang does not want to hand over the cup anytime soon. — AFP (@AusFedPolice) September 9, 2019 × In the first innings of the match, he scored a double ton, enabling Australia to post 497 on the board. The team then bundled out England for 301 to gain a lead of 196 runs. In the second innings, Australia was in a spot of bother at 44/4, but Smith played a vital 82-run knock to enable the side to declare at 186/6, setting England a target of 383 runs. Paine was able to contribute himself in the second innings as he scored a half-century. He has become the first captain to retain the Ashes in England since Steve Waugh in 2001. In the final innings, England's wickets kept on falling at regular intervals but Australia had to toil hard to take the final two wickets. England was finally bundled out for 197 in the fourth innings. Pat Cummins took the maximum number of wickets as he scalped four batsmen. Currently, Australia has a 2-1 lead in the series with one match left to play. England and Australia next face each other in the final Test, beginning September 12 at the Oval.

Read how Australian police mock England cricket team after Aussies retain Ashes urn

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith.

Smith has returned from his one-year ban for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in quite sensational form and hit his ninth consecutive Ashes half century with a knock of 82 on Saturday.

That took his tally to 671 runs at an average of 134 over the series, a haul all the more remarkable given he missed the third test after being struck on the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer.

It will be down to Australia's bowlers to ensure England, who will resume on 18-2 needing another 365 to win, do not produce another miracle recovery on Sunday to go with the one Ben Stokes conjured up in the third Test at Headingley.

But even if Pat Cummins and co do achieve their task, Border thinks the entire team will need to doff their baggy Green Caps to former captain Smith.

"He's been quite phenomenal and if Australia go on to win this game and retain the Ashes, it's basically been on the back of Smith's bat," Border told Fox Sports TV.

"He's been phenomenal throughout the series and again yesterday, Australia in trouble as usual, top of the order struggling again.

"He just steadies the ship, and then that remarkable knock and gets them into position to declare and take those two late wickets which puts Australia right in the box seat going into day five."

While Smith has thrived in a series pushed back into the autumn to accommodate the World Cup, his fellow top order batsmen, with the exception of Marnus Labuschagne, have endured a torrid time in the face of the hostile English bowling.

"He's just a different class, it's as simple as that, he looks like he's playing in different conditions," Border added.

"The bowling looks less threatening when he's at the crease. All the other batsmen have really struggled.

"There's been some good bowling and the pitches have helped the bowlers a fair bit throughout the series ... but when Steve Smith's facing up, it's a different ballgame.

"He's just been the difference between the two teams to date."

If England manage to force a draw at Old Trafford, the series, currently tied at 1-1, will go down to the final Test with Australian just needing to avoid defeat at The Oval to retain the Ashes.

Border, who scored 3,548 runs from 47 Tests against England at an average of 56.31, was confident Australia would wrap it up in Manchester but felt changes would be needed if they fell short.

"I think we hold all the aces but if it's draw, they will have to look at that top order," Border said.

"They're just missing straight balls and they can't keep relying on Steve Smith to get them out of trouble, he's going to miss out eventually."

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith.

Former Test skipper Allan Border says that if Australia take the last eight English wickets on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test on Sunday and retain the coveted urn, the credit can go only to one man -- Steve Smith. Smith has returned from his one-year ban for the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in quite sensational form and hit his ninth consecutive Ashes half century with a knock of 82 on Saturday. That took his tally to 671 runs at an average of 134 over the series, a haul all the more remarkable given he missed the third test after being struck on the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer. It will be down to Australia's bowlers to ensure England, who will resume on 18-2 needing another 365 to win, do not produce another miracle recovery on Sunday to go with the one Ben Stokes conjured up in the third Test at Headingley. But even if Pat Cummins and co do achieve their task, Border thinks the entire team will need to doff their baggy Green Caps to former captain Smith. "He's been quite phenomenal and if Australia go on to win this game and retain the Ashes, it's basically been on the back of Smith's bat," Border told Fox Sports TV. "He's been phenomenal throughout the series and again yesterday, Australia in trouble as usual, top of the order struggling again. "He just steadies the ship, and then that remarkable knock and gets them into position to declare and take those two late wickets which puts Australia right in the box seat going into day five." While Smith has thrived in a series pushed back into the autumn to accommodate the World Cup, his fellow top order batsmen, with the exception of Marnus Labuschagne, have endured a torrid time in the face of the hostile English bowling. "He's just a different class, it's as simple as that, he looks like he's playing in different conditions," Border added. "The bowling looks less threatening when he's at the crease. All the other batsmen have really struggled. "There's been some good bowling and the pitches have helped the bowlers a fair bit throughout the series ... but when Steve Smith's facing up, it's a different ballgame. "He's just been the difference between the two teams to date." If England manage to force a draw at Old Trafford, the series, currently tied at 1-1, will go down to the final Test with Australian just needing to avoid defeat at The Oval to retain the Ashes. Border, who scored 3,548 runs from 47 Tests against England at an average of 56.31, was confident Australia would wrap it up in Manchester but felt changes would be needed if they fell short. "I think we hold all the aces but if it's draw, they will have to look at that top order," Border said. "They're just missing straight balls and they can't keep relying on Steve Smith to get them out of trouble, he's going to miss out eventually."

It'll be Steve Smith's Ashes if Australia prevail, says Allan Border

England were bowled out for 301 in reply to Australia's first-innings 497-8 declared, a deficit of 196 runs, on the fourth day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Jos Buttler's cover-driven four off Mitchell Starc saw England avoid the follow-on with just one wicket standing after Australia were unable to challenge an lbw decision against No 11 Jack Leach because they had used up all their reviews.

Buttler was last man out, bowled for 41, by Pat Cummins.

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Australia have bowled England out for 301! 
 
Opener Rory Burns and skipper Joe Root made fifties while Jos Buttler contributed with a 65-ball 41. 
 
Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> live 👇<a href="https://t.co/zrb0K55IBc">https://t.co/zrb0K55IBc</a> <a href="https://t.co/slcZAPpizn">pic.twitter.com/slcZAPpizn</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1170328235609141248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Nevertheless, Australia remained on top in a match where victory would see them retain the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in a five-Test series.

All of Australia's three fast bowlers were in the wickets, Josh Hazlewood leading the way with 4-57 in 25 overs.

Cummins took 3-60 and left-armer Mitchell Starc 3-80 after Australia star batsman Steve Smith had marked his return to Test cricket with a superb 211.

England were bowled out for 301 in reply to Australia's first-innings 497-8 declared, a deficit of 196 runs, on the fourth day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford on Saturday.

England were bowled out for 301 in reply to Australia's first-innings 497-8 declared, a deficit of 196 runs, on the fourth day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford on Saturday. Jos Buttler's cover-driven four off Mitchell Starc saw England avoid the follow-on with just one wicket standing after Australia were unable to challenge an lbw decision against No 11 Jack Leach because they had used up all their reviews. Buttler was last man out, bowled for 41, by Pat Cummins. Australia have bowled England out for 301! Opener Rory Burns and skipper Joe Root made fifties while Jos Buttler contributed with a 65-ball 41. Follow the #Ashes live 👇https://t.co/zrb0K55IBc pic.twitter.com/slcZAPpizn — ICC (@ICC) September 7, 2019 × Nevertheless, Australia remained on top in a match where victory would see them retain the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in a five-Test series. All of Australia's three fast bowlers were in the wickets, Josh Hazlewood leading the way with 4-57 in 25 overs. Cummins took 3-60 and left-armer Mitchell Starc 3-80 after Australia star batsman Steve Smith had marked his return to Test cricket with a superb 211.

Ashes 2019: England 301 all out against Australia in fourth Test

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley.

Waugh had left the squad after the first two Tests as scheduled but has rejoined the group ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford starting on Wednesday.

With the series locked at 1-1, one victory in the next two Tests will ensure Australia retain the urn in England for the first time since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 in 2001.

"We asked him to stay for the third Test, but he had to go back for a function," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters in Manchester.

"But he was actually going to fly there, do the function and fly back the next day. That's how much he's enjoying it.

"He's been like a kid at Christmas."

Having Waugh in the backroom staff, much like Ricky Ponting taking on an assistant coaching role during the World Cup, was a priority for Langer after he faced many testing moments during his first year as coach.

"Guys like Punter (Ponting) and Steve Waugh, not only do they have a great presence in the group, but they are great psychologists," Langer added.

"They've been in the cauldron before, they've seen it all, so to have that those type of guys, we are talking about developing leadership in Australian cricket, to have our guys to learn from people of that calibre is very important short term."

Australia's one-wicket defeat in the third Test was a bitter pill to swallow but they would put it behind them, he said.

"I actually felt physically sick after it and then I went back to my room. I wasn't sure whether to cry my eyes out or smash my hotel room," he said.

"Everyone in that change room, probably a lot of Australians felt it, felt completely sick.

"You never like to let opportunities slip... that's OK, we'll make sure we learn from it."

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley.

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley. Waugh had left the squad after the first two Tests as scheduled but has rejoined the group ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford starting on Wednesday. With the series locked at 1-1, one victory in the next two Tests will ensure Australia retain the urn in England for the first time since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 in 2001. "We asked him to stay for the third Test, but he had to go back for a function," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters in Manchester. "But he was actually going to fly there, do the function and fly back the next day. That's how much he's enjoying it. "He's been like a kid at Christmas." Having Waugh in the backroom staff, much like Ricky Ponting taking on an assistant coaching role during the World Cup, was a priority for Langer after he faced many testing moments during his first year as coach. "Guys like Punter (Ponting) and Steve Waugh, not only do they have a great presence in the group, but they are great psychologists," Langer added. "They've been in the cauldron before, they've seen it all, so to have that those type of guys, we are talking about developing leadership in Australian cricket, to have our guys to learn from people of that calibre is very important short term." Australia's one-wicket defeat in the third Test was a bitter pill to swallow but they would put it behind them, he said. "I actually felt physically sick after it and then I went back to my room. I wasn't sure whether to cry my eyes out or smash my hotel room," he said. "Everyone in that change room, probably a lot of Australians felt it, felt completely sick. "You never like to let opportunities slip... that's OK, we'll make sure we learn from it."

Former captain Steve Waugh returns to give Australia an Ashes lift

Steve Smith continued his buildup for the fourth Ashes test by heading straight to the practice nets after being dismissed in Australia's tour match against Derbyshire on Thursday.

Smith missed Australia's one-wicket loss to England in the third test at Leeds after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second match at Lord's and suffered a delayed concussion.

He returned in the three-day match at the County Ground and scored 23 from 38 balls against an attack featuring mostly medium-pacers and appeared to throw his wicket away when slower bowlers were introduced.

He left his pads on and headed to the nets with fellow batsman David Warner, who used a 'dog thrower' device to simulate the kind of pace Smith might expect to face from Archer and Stuart Broad in the fourth test in Manchester.

"I think if Smudger (Smith) got 20 or 220 he'd still want to go to the nets and have a hit," said Mitchell Marsh, who batted with Smith during a 58-run stand.

"That's just him, that's what he does, and that's why he's the best in the world."

Smith's return to the crease coincided with news that England lost opening bowler James Anderson for the rest of the series.

The series is tied 1-1 with the fourth game starting at Old Trafford on September&nbsp;4 before the final test begins on September&nbsp;12 at The Oval in London.

Steve Smith continued his buildup for the fourth Ashes test by heading straight to the practice nets after being dismissed in Australia's tour match against Derbyshire on Thursday.

Steve Smith continued his buildup for the fourth Ashes test by heading straight to the practice nets after being dismissed in Australia's tour match against Derbyshire on Thursday. Smith missed Australia's one-wicket loss to England in the third test at Leeds after he was felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the second match at Lord's and suffered a delayed concussion. He returned in the three-day match at the County Ground and scored 23 from 38 balls against an attack featuring mostly medium-pacers and appeared to throw his wicket away when slower bowlers were introduced. He left his pads on and headed to the nets with fellow batsman David Warner, who used a 'dog thrower' device to simulate the kind of pace Smith might expect to face from Archer and Stuart Broad in the fourth test in Manchester. "I think if Smudger (Smith) got 20 or 220 he'd still want to go to the nets and have a hit," said Mitchell Marsh, who batted with Smith during a 58-run stand. "That's just him, that's what he does, and that's why he's the best in the world." Smith's return to the crease coincided with news that England lost opening bowler James Anderson for the rest of the series. The series is tied 1-1 with the fourth game starting at Old Trafford on September 4 before the final test begins on September 12 at The Oval in London.

Steve Smith goes from crease to nets ahead of Ashes return

England's Ben Stokes travels rocky road en route success

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday.

Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test.

That left Australia 178 runs behind England's first-innings 258.

The 24.1 overs that took place in the morning session represented the only action on Friday, with persistent rain leading the umpires to eventually abandon play for the day at 5:22 pm local time (1622 GMT) in a match where Wednesday's scheduled first day had already been washed out without a ball bowled. &nbsp;

Archer, on the ground where he bowled the Super Over that saw England seal a World Cup final win over New Zealand last month, had fine figures of one wicket for 18 runs in 13 overs.

Stuart Broad led the way with 2-26 in 13 overs, while fellow seamer Chris Woakes chipped in with 1-27 in nine.

But Australia star batsman Steve Smith was still there on 13 not out, with Matthew Wade unbeaten on nought.

'Long way to go'

Broad insisted there was still enough time left in the game to force a win.

"There's certainly hope for both sides," he told reporters. "This pitch has got 10 good balls in it in each day. I think we'll get 98 overs in the next two days, so I think there is chance of a result."

Meanwhile former Australia captain Steve Waugh, a mentor to the current squad, said: "There is a long way to go in the game... We're still 178 behind. That's our first target.

"If we can get there and get some more runs after that, we believe we're in with a chance. We're a long way away from that.

"Both sides, I think, will be confident they can force a victory but there is a lot of work to be done."

Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston, resumed on 30-1 having seen Broad dismiss David Warner cheaply for the third time in as many innings this Ashes.

Play started under gloomy skies, the floodlights on at full beam, with conditions difficult for batting.

Cameron Bancroft was five not out and Usman Khawaja 18 not out following a lively opening spell by Archer, in for the injured James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, late on Thursday.

Khawaja struck two offside fours in as many balls when first-change Woakes dropped short.

But England altered the momentum with two wickets for no runs in four balls as Australia's 60-1 became 60-3.

Archer, topping speeds of 90 mph, had his first Test wicket when he nipped one back sharply to have Bancroft lbw for 13.

The 24-year-old Sussex paceman's celebrations were put on hold as the struggling opener reviewed before replays indicated the ball would have clipped the top of the stumps.

There were some boos as Smith, fresh from twin hundreds at Edgbaston in his comeback Test following a 12-month ball-tampering ban, came into bat.

He could only watch as Woakes, with England at last bowling over the wicket to Khawaja, induced an outside edge to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow that saw the left-hander caught for 36.

Australia were 71-4 when Broad had Travis Head lbw for seven following an England review.

All-rounder Ben Stokes thought he had Edgbaston century-maker Wade lbw for a duck but the batsman's review revealed the ball had pitched outside leg stump.

Australia hold the Ashes but are bidding for their first Test series win away to England in 18 years.

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday. Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test.

England fast bowler Jofra Archer marked his Test debut with a wicket as Australia suffered a top-order collapse before rain cut short play at Lord's on Friday. Australia lost three wickets for 11 runs en route to slumping to 80-4 when rain forced an early lunch on the third day of the second Test. That left Australia 178 runs behind England's first-innings 258. The 24.1 overs that took place in the morning session represented the only action on Friday, with persistent rain leading the umpires to eventually abandon play for the day at 5:22 pm local time (1622 GMT) in a match where Wednesday's scheduled first day had already been washed out without a ball bowled. Archer, on the ground where he bowled the Super Over that saw England seal a World Cup final win over New Zealand last month, had fine figures of one wicket for 18 runs in 13 overs. Stuart Broad led the way with 2-26 in 13 overs, while fellow seamer Chris Woakes chipped in with 1-27 in nine. But Australia star batsman Steve Smith was still there on 13 not out, with Matthew Wade unbeaten on nought. 'Long way to go' Broad insisted there was still enough time left in the game to force a win. "There's certainly hope for both sides," he told reporters. "This pitch has got 10 good balls in it in each day. I think we'll get 98 overs in the next two days, so I think there is chance of a result." Meanwhile former Australia captain Steve Waugh, a mentor to the current squad, said: "There is a long way to go in the game... We're still 178 behind. That's our first target. "If we can get there and get some more runs after that, we believe we're in with a chance. We're a long way away from that. "Both sides, I think, will be confident they can force a victory but there is a lot of work to be done." Australia, 1-0 up in the five-match series after their 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston, resumed on 30-1 having seen Broad dismiss David Warner cheaply for the third time in as many innings this Ashes. Play started under gloomy skies, the floodlights on at full beam, with conditions difficult for batting. Cameron Bancroft was five not out and Usman Khawaja 18 not out following a lively opening spell by Archer, in for the injured James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, late on Thursday. Khawaja struck two offside fours in as many balls when first-change Woakes dropped short. But England altered the momentum with two wickets for no runs in four balls as Australia's 60-1 became 60-3. Archer, topping speeds of 90 mph, had his first Test wicket when he nipped one back sharply to have Bancroft lbw for 13. The 24-year-old Sussex paceman's celebrations were put on hold as the struggling opener reviewed before replays indicated the ball would have clipped the top of the stumps. There were some boos as Smith, fresh from twin hundreds at Edgbaston in his comeback Test following a 12-month ball-tampering ban, came into bat. He could only watch as Woakes, with England at last bowling over the wicket to Khawaja, induced an outside edge to wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow that saw the left-hander caught for 36. Australia were 71-4 when Broad had Travis Head lbw for seven following an England review. All-rounder Ben Stokes thought he had Edgbaston century-maker Wade lbw for a duck but the batsman's review revealed the ball had pitched outside leg stump. Australia hold the Ashes but are bidding for their first Test series win away to England in 18 years.

Archer strikes as Australia slump before rain intervenes again in second Ashes Test

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon insisted that it was not "the best day" as per the Baggy Greens standards despite bowling England out for 258 runs on the day two of the second Test of Ashes series.&nbsp;

Australia won the toss and put England in to bat on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-ruthless-australia-take-control-at-lords-243292">second day of the Lord's Test</a> after rain washed out the first day. For Australia, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon took three wickets to help the touring side to take control.&nbsp;

Australia are currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the Edgbaston Test. In reply to England's 258, Australia were 30 for a loss of one wicket at stumps of day two.&nbsp;

Lyon, who tied Dennis Lillee as Australia's third-highest Test wicket-taker, said his side's performance was not up to the standards.&nbsp;

"If you look at today, I don't think we've had the best day, if I'm being brutally honest," said Lyon.&nbsp;

"I think for our standards, I don't think we were good enough for long periods of time, but in saying that it's a still a good day for Australia," he added.&nbsp;

"There's still a lot of work to do but we're happy with the day. But we know there's a lot of improvement to be done," added the spinner.&nbsp;

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"I'm very happy with where my skill set is at – I just feel like I can get better." 
 
Nathan Lyon, who equalled Dennis Lillee at No.3 on Australia's all-time Test wicket-takers' list, insists he has more to offer 👇 <a href="https://t.co/h1FjCjxst5">https://t.co/h1FjCjxst5</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1162242588117569538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On being asked about the plans ahead in the match, Lyon said, "We've got to come out tomorrow and make sure that we're doing the basics really with the bat and try and bat long periods of time."

"They've got a world class bowling unit, we know that. So it's going to be challenging," he added.&nbsp;

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon insisted that it was not "the best day" as per the Baggy Greens standards despite bowling England out for 258 runs on the day two of the second Test of Ashes series.

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon insisted that it was not "the best day" as per the Baggy Greens standards despite bowling England out for 258 runs on the day two of the second Test of Ashes series. Australia won the toss and put England in to bat on the second day of the Lord's Test after rain washed out the first day. For Australia, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon took three wickets to help the touring side to take control. Australia are currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the Edgbaston Test. In reply to England's 258, Australia were 30 for a loss of one wicket at stumps of day two. Lyon, who tied Dennis Lillee as Australia's third-highest Test wicket-taker, said his side's performance was not up to the standards. "If you look at today, I don't think we've had the best day, if I'm being brutally honest," said Lyon. "I think for our standards, I don't think we were good enough for long periods of time, but in saying that it's a still a good day for Australia," he added. "There's still a lot of work to do but we're happy with the day. But we know there's a lot of improvement to be done," added the spinner. "I'm very happy with where my skill set is at – I just feel like I can get better." Nathan Lyon, who equalled Dennis Lillee at No.3 on Australia's all-time Test wicket-takers' list, insists he has more to offer 👇 https://t.co/h1FjCjxst5 — ICC (@ICC) August 16, 2019 × On being asked about the plans ahead in the match, Lyon said, "We've got to come out tomorrow and make sure that we're doing the basics really with the bat and try and bat long periods of time." "They've got a world class bowling unit, we know that. So it's going to be challenging," he added.

'I don't think we've had the best day,' says Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon

Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon took three wickets each as Australia bowled out England for 258 and reached 30 for one in reply to take control of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Thursday.

After rain washed out the first day, Australia won the toss and put England in to bat, Hazlewood taking two early wickets to give the touring side the initiative which they never surrendered.

Rory Burns and Jonny Bairstow made half-centuries but it was a disappointing batting performance by England, and Australia will be confident of claiming a first-innings lead and pushing on for a win that would put them 2-0 up in the series.

"I don't think we have had our best day, we dropped a few catches but if we are batting at the end of the day we are pretty happy," Lyon said.

"We want to be a team that no matter what we do first we are competing and playing a positive brand of cricket."

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Stumps! 
 
Australia close Day 1 on 30/1, Cameron Bancroft and Usman Khawaja the not out batsmen.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/zaoznJQfSe">pic.twitter.com/zaoznJQfSe</a>
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Jason Roy lasted three balls, flashing wildly at his first before edging a lifting Hazlewood delivery to wicketkeeper Tim Paine for nought.

Captain Joe Root twice drove Cummins sweetly to the extra cover boundary before, on 14, he was trapped lbw by Hazlewood with a delivery that jagged back and kept low.

Burns, who made a patient century in the first test at Edgbaston, dug in to play the anchor role again but he was given a life when he drove loosely at a wide ball from Peter Siddle and Usman Khawaja spilled a sharp catch at gully.

Hazlewood, recalled to the side, bowled two probing and accurate spells in the morning, conceding only 14 runs in 10 overs to lift Australia's quest to win the Ashes in England for the first time since 2001.

Burns slog-swept spinner Lyon for four to bring up England's fifty and the left-hander was 34 not out with Joe Denly unbeaten on 27 as the hosts reached 76 for two at lunch.

As has happened regularly in Denly's fledgling test career, however, he failed to capitalise on a solid start.

Routine catch

The right-hander added three runs before he nibbled at a full-length Hazlewood delivery and edged another routine catch to Paine.

Burns completed his third test fifty, off 119 balls, and he was the victim of a brilliant reaction catch by Cameron Bancroft at short leg as the batsman looked to turn a short delivery from Cummins off his hip.

Jos Buttler made 12 before he hung his bat limply at a wide delivery from Siddle to nick it to Paine and Ben Stokes missed a straight ball from Lyon to depart lbw for 13 with England reeling at 138 for six.

Bairstow and Chris Woakes steadied the ship with a seventh-wicket partnership of 72 in bright sunshine at the home of cricket before the latter gloved Cummins down the leg-side to Paine to fall for 32.

Jofra Archer made 12, Stuart Broad 11 and Bairstow was last man out, caught in the deep for 52 off Lyon who moved alongside great Australia fast bowler Dennis Lillee on 355 test wickets.

"It is pretty hard to see my name alongside the true legends of Australian cricket," Lyon said. "It's a special moment and hopefully a few more will come."

Australia had about 20 overs to bat on an extended day and they lost David Warner, who was bowled by a fine delivery from Broad for three.

Bancroft (five not out) and Khawaja (18 not out) survived a fiery spell by Archer on his debut, however, and with rain forecast to disrupt day three, England face an uphill task to level the series and boost their hopes of regaining the Ashes.

"There was some good bowling, a bit of nibble and we have seen in that period if you stick enough balls in the right areas it can be difficult," Burns said.

Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon took three wickets each as Australia bowled out England for 258 and reached 30 for one in reply to take control of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Thursday.

Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon took three wickets each as Australia bowled out England for 258 and reached 30 for one in reply to take control of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Thursday. After rain washed out the first day, Australia won the toss and put England in to bat, Hazlewood taking two early wickets to give the touring side the initiative which they never surrendered. Rory Burns and Jonny Bairstow made half-centuries but it was a disappointing batting performance by England, and Australia will be confident of claiming a first-innings lead and pushing on for a win that would put them 2-0 up in the series. "I don't think we have had our best day, we dropped a few catches but if we are batting at the end of the day we are pretty happy," Lyon said. "We want to be a team that no matter what we do first we are competing and playing a positive brand of cricket." Stumps! Australia close Day 1 on 30/1, Cameron Bancroft and Usman Khawaja the not out batsmen.#Ashes pic.twitter.com/zaoznJQfSe — ICC (@ICC) August 15, 2019 × Jason Roy lasted three balls, flashing wildly at his first before edging a lifting Hazlewood delivery to wicketkeeper Tim Paine for nought. Captain Joe Root twice drove Cummins sweetly to the extra cover boundary before, on 14, he was trapped lbw by Hazlewood with a delivery that jagged back and kept low. Burns, who made a patient century in the first test at Edgbaston, dug in to play the anchor role again but he was given a life when he drove loosely at a wide ball from Peter Siddle and Usman Khawaja spilled a sharp catch at gully. Hazlewood, recalled to the side, bowled two probing and accurate spells in the morning, conceding only 14 runs in 10 overs to lift Australia's quest to win the Ashes in England for the first time since 2001. Burns slog-swept spinner Lyon for four to bring up England's fifty and the left-hander was 34 not out with Joe Denly unbeaten on 27 as the hosts reached 76 for two at lunch. As has happened regularly in Denly's fledgling test career, however, he failed to capitalise on a solid start. Routine catch The right-hander added three runs before he nibbled at a full-length Hazlewood delivery and edged another routine catch to Paine. Burns completed his third test fifty, off 119 balls, and he was the victim of a brilliant reaction catch by Cameron Bancroft at short leg as the batsman looked to turn a short delivery from Cummins off his hip. Jos Buttler made 12 before he hung his bat limply at a wide delivery from Siddle to nick it to Paine and Ben Stokes missed a straight ball from Lyon to depart lbw for 13 with England reeling at 138 for six. Bairstow and Chris Woakes steadied the ship with a seventh-wicket partnership of 72 in bright sunshine at the home of cricket before the latter gloved Cummins down the leg-side to Paine to fall for 32. Jofra Archer made 12, Stuart Broad 11 and Bairstow was last man out, caught in the deep for 52 off Lyon who moved alongside great Australia fast bowler Dennis Lillee on 355 test wickets. "It is pretty hard to see my name alongside the true legends of Australian cricket," Lyon said. "It's a special moment and hopefully a few more will come." Australia had about 20 overs to bat on an extended day and they lost David Warner, who was bowled by a fine delivery from Broad for three. Bancroft (five not out) and Khawaja (18 not out) survived a fiery spell by Archer on his debut, however, and with rain forecast to disrupt day three, England face an uphill task to level the series and boost their hopes of regaining the Ashes. "There was some good bowling, a bit of nibble and we have seen in that period if you stick enough balls in the right areas it can be difficult," Burns said.

Josh Hazlewood in the wickets on Ashes return as Australia take control at Lord's

Australia have announced the&nbsp;12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium.&nbsp;

James Pattinson, who picked two wickets and also scored a crucial unbeaten 47-run knock in the second innings of the first Test, has been left out.&nbsp;

Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, who did not play the first Test at Edgbaston because he was recovering from a knee injury, is included in the 15-man squad.

Josh Hazlewood has also been named as he impressed during last week's&nbsp;tour match at Worcester, where he returned figures of 3-34.

The playing XI will be announced at the time of toss.&nbsp;

"What is fortunate at the moment is we've got six fit and healthy fast bowlers," &nbsp;said head coach Justin Langer at Monday's pre-match press conference.

"I've been coaching for about 10 years now and I can't ever remember having that luxury, but it could change like that so we're not getting carried away with it.

"The fact that we had Josh and Mitch on the bench in the last Test match, it doesn't happen very often," the coach added.&nbsp;

Australia is currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the first Test match by 251 runs.&nbsp;

David Warner, who failed to leave an impact in&nbsp;the Edgbaston Test, will again open for Australia alongside&nbsp;Cameron Bancroft.&nbsp;

On being asked about Warner's form, coach Justin Langer said, "I like it when great players miss out."&nbsp;

"It means statistically they'll probably get some pretty soon, so hopefully it's this Test," Langer quoted by&nbsp;cricket.com.au.&nbsp;

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James Pattinson left out of the squad for Lord's, but who makes the final XI? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/dun3xghD10">https://t.co/dun3xghD10</a>
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Australia's XII for Lord's Test: David Warner, Cameron Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (C/WK), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood&nbsp;

Australia have announced the 12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium.

Australia have announced the 12-member squad for the second Test of a five-match Ashes series, which is scheduled to begin on August 14 at Lord's cricket stadium. James Pattinson, who picked two wickets and also scored a crucial unbeaten 47-run knock in the second innings of the first Test, has been left out. Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, who did not play the first Test at Edgbaston because he was recovering from a knee injury, is included in the 15-man squad. Josh Hazlewood has also been named as he impressed during last week's tour match at Worcester, where he returned figures of 3-34. The playing XI will be announced at the time of toss. "What is fortunate at the moment is we've got six fit and healthy fast bowlers," said head coach Justin Langer at Monday's pre-match press conference. "I've been coaching for about 10 years now and I can't ever remember having that luxury, but it could change like that so we're not getting carried away with it. "The fact that we had Josh and Mitch on the bench in the last Test match, it doesn't happen very often," the coach added. Australia is currently leading the series 1-0 after winning the first Test match by 251 runs. David Warner, who failed to leave an impact in the Edgbaston Test, will again open for Australia alongside Cameron Bancroft. On being asked about Warner's form, coach Justin Langer said, "I like it when great players miss out." "It means statistically they'll probably get some pretty soon, so hopefully it's this Test," Langer quoted by cricket.com.au. James Pattinson left out of the squad for Lord's, but who makes the final XI? #Ashes https://t.co/dun3xghD10 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 13, 2019 × Australia's XII for Lord's Test: David Warner, Cameron Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Tim Paine (C/WK), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Ashes 2019: Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood named in Australia's 12-man squad for Lord's Test

England's veteran paceman James Anderson is frustrated and filled with guilt as he is unable to contribute to the team during the Ashes series because of a calf injury.&nbsp;

Anderson has been ruled out of the second Test after the injury limited his participation in the series opener at Edgbaston.&nbsp;

"You feel lots of guilt (and you are) generally frustrated but you're trying to help the lads as much as possible without making them feel worse," said Anderson as per reported by Reuters quoting BBC Radio 5 Live.&nbsp;

"I missed the Ireland Test as a precaution to make sure I was 100 per cent&nbsp;for the Ashes. I felt angry having done all the work to get there. There's nothing else we could've done," he added.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Ashes series, Anderson was missing in action a month after he had picked up a calf injury playing for Lancashire in the County Championship.&nbsp;

England's cricket board had said in a statement that the pacer underwent scans that confirmed a calf issue.&nbsp;

"All the tests they do... to see if it's OK, it just wasn't playing ball so it was hugely frustrating," Anderson added.&nbsp;

The second Test of the five-match series begins at Lord's on August 14.&nbsp;

England's veteran paceman James Anderson is frustrated and filled with guilt as he is unable to contribute to the team during the Ashes series because of a calf injury.

England's veteran paceman James Anderson is frustrated and filled with guilt as he is unable to contribute to the team during the Ashes series because of a calf injury. Anderson has been ruled out of the second Test after the injury limited his participation in the series opener at Edgbaston. "You feel lots of guilt (and you are) generally frustrated but you're trying to help the lads as much as possible without making them feel worse," said Anderson as per reported by Reuters quoting BBC Radio 5 Live. "I missed the Ireland Test as a precaution to make sure I was 100 per cent for the Ashes. I felt angry having done all the work to get there. There's nothing else we could've done," he added. Ahead of the Ashes series, Anderson was missing in action a month after he had picked up a calf injury playing for Lancashire in the County Championship. England's cricket board had said in a statement that the pacer underwent scans that confirmed a calf issue. "All the tests they do... to see if it's OK, it just wasn't playing ball so it was hugely frustrating," Anderson added. The second Test of the five-match series begins at Lord's on August 14.

England's James Anderson frustrated and filled with guilt by niggling calf injury

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday.&nbsp;

England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England.

Defeat for the home side ended their run of 11 successive international wins at their Birmingham 'fortress'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142.

In the process the star batsman became just the fifth Australian to score two hundreds in an Ashes Test.

His first-innings century helped guide Ashes-holders Australia to 284 after they had collapsed to 122-8.

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Australia win! 
 
A superb performance with bat and ball, especially in the second innings, sees them take a 1-0 lead in the 2019 men's Ashes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/1W5ACF0ktJ">pic.twitter.com/1W5ACF0ktJ</a>
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Five and very quickly six wickets for Nathan Lyon! 
 
A wonderful effort from him and in the process he has passed 3️⃣5️⃣0️⃣Test wickets for Australia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/BwczJjbS4D">pic.twitter.com/BwczJjbS4D</a>
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England replied with 374, their first-innings lead of 90 built on a maiden Test century from left-handed opener Rory Burns, who made 133, and fifties from captain Joe Root and vice-captain Ben Stokes.

Former Australia captain Smith's second-innings century and a maiden Ashes hundred from Matthew Wade allowed visiting captain Tim Paine to declare on 487-7.

Australia capitalised on the absence through injury of James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, who only sent down four first-innings overs before breaking down with a calf problem that meant he did not bowl again in the match.

The match was the first of the International Cricket Council's new World Test Championship, with Australia's win giving them 24 points.

The five-match series continues with the second Test at Lord's starting on August 14.

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146.

Australia beat England by 251 runs to win the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Monday. England, set an imposing target of 398 to win, collapsed to 97-7 in the post-lunch session on the fifth and final day before being bowled out for 146. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon took 6-49 and fast bowler Pat Cummins 4-32 as Australia enjoyed their first win in all formats at Edgbaston since 2001 -- the last time they won an Ashes series in England. Defeat for the home side ended their run of 11 successive international wins at their Birmingham 'fortress'. The match was a personal triumph for Australia's Steve Smith, who in his first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal, scored 144 and 142. In the process the star batsman became just the fifth Australian to score two hundreds in an Ashes Test. His first-innings century helped guide Ashes-holders Australia to 284 after they had collapsed to 122-8. Australia win! A superb performance with bat and ball, especially in the second innings, sees them take a 1-0 lead in the 2019 men's Ashes.#Ashes pic.twitter.com/1W5ACF0ktJ — ICC (@ICC) August 5, 2019 × Five and very quickly six wickets for Nathan Lyon! A wonderful effort from him and in the process he has passed 3️⃣5️⃣0️⃣Test wickets for Australia.#Ashes pic.twitter.com/BwczJjbS4D — ICC (@ICC) August 5, 2019 × England replied with 374, their first-innings lead of 90 built on a maiden Test century from left-handed opener Rory Burns, who made 133, and fifties from captain Joe Root and vice-captain Ben Stokes. Former Australia captain Smith's second-innings century and a maiden Ashes hundred from Matthew Wade allowed visiting captain Tim Paine to declare on 487-7. Australia capitalised on the absence through injury of James Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, who only sent down four first-innings overs before breaking down with a calf problem that meant he did not bowl again in the match. The match was the first of the International Cricket Council's new World Test Championship, with Australia's win giving them 24 points. The five-match series continues with the second Test at Lord's starting on August 14.

Australia win first Ashes Test against England by 251 runs

Team mentor Steve Waugh believes Australia's bowlers just need to stick to their task on the third day of the first Ashes Test and look for some early breakthroughs to get right back into the match.

The tourists were on the back foot after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rory-burnss-maiden-test-century-frustrates-australia-240333">second day at Edgbaston</a> after England's Rory Burns hit an unbeaten 125 to lead his side to 267 for four, a first-innings deficit of 17 runs with six wickets in hand.

Australia have fielded an experimental bowling attack in Pat Cummins, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon and former Test captain Waugh thought that the day could have looked very different had a bit of luck gone their way.

"I really can't fault our bowlers today or the effort in the field," he told reporters.

"Early in the day Pattinson hitting the stumps, maybe the referral we got wrong, we could have had them three or four down at lunch and it might've been a totally different day.

"I think our bowlers' efforts were really good. If they can do the same thing tomorrow, get a couple edges first up, it could be totally different."

Pattinson, playing his first Test for three injury-blighted years, was the pick of the Australian pacemen with two for 54 in an attack without Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who are both inside the top 15 in the world test rankings.

The duo's surprise omission has so far been accepted back home as a "horses for courses" selection but is certain to become an issue if England build up a big lead on Saturday and go on to win the Test.

Waugh, though, said the contest would be still very much in the balance if Australia could get some quick wickets and limit England's first innings lead to 50 or so.

"It's not an easy wicket to bat on so you've got to give the batsmen credit -- they played really well and took their opportunities and made it hard for us to take wickets," he added.

"I thought our boys really toiled well all day and it wasn't easy."

Team mentor Steve Waugh believes Australia's bowlers just need to stick to their task on the third day of the first Ashes Test and look for some early breakthroughs to get right back into the match.

Team mentor Steve Waugh believes Australia's bowlers just need to stick to their task on the third day of the first Ashes Test and look for some early breakthroughs to get right back into the match. The tourists were on the back foot after the second day at Edgbaston after England's Rory Burns hit an unbeaten 125 to lead his side to 267 for four, a first-innings deficit of 17 runs with six wickets in hand. Australia have fielded an experimental bowling attack in Pat Cummins, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon and former Test captain Waugh thought that the day could have looked very different had a bit of luck gone their way. "I really can't fault our bowlers today or the effort in the field," he told reporters. "Early in the day Pattinson hitting the stumps, maybe the referral we got wrong, we could have had them three or four down at lunch and it might've been a totally different day. "I think our bowlers' efforts were really good. If they can do the same thing tomorrow, get a couple edges first up, it could be totally different." Pattinson, playing his first Test for three injury-blighted years, was the pick of the Australian pacemen with two for 54 in an attack without Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who are both inside the top 15 in the world test rankings. The duo's surprise omission has so far been accepted back home as a "horses for courses" selection but is certain to become an issue if England build up a big lead on Saturday and go on to win the Test. Waugh, though, said the contest would be still very much in the balance if Australia could get some quick wickets and limit England's first innings lead to 50 or so. "It's not an easy wicket to bat on so you've got to give the batsmen credit -- they played really well and took their opportunities and made it hard for us to take wickets," he added. "I thought our boys really toiled well all day and it wasn't easy."

Australia's bowlers must stick to their task, says Steve Waugh

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out.

They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8.

Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease.

England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering.

But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38.

In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon.

Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review.

Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket.

A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours.

But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine.

Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5.

New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket.

Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point.

But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine.&nbsp;

Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours.

By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings.

Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner.

England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought.

But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

Nathan Lyon took two wickets in an over as Australia finally saw the back of Rory Burns during an England collapse in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. England were 328-8 at lunch on the third day, a first-innings lead of 44 runs, with Chris Woakes 13 not out and Stuart Broad 11 not out. They had been hoping to build a substantial first-innings advantage but from 296-5 they lost three wickets for four runs in slumping to 300-8. Ashes debutant Burns was caught behind off the bowling of off-spinner Lyon for 133, his maiden Test century, after a superb feat of endurance that saw the opener spend nearly eight hours at the crease. England resumed on 267-4, 17 adrift of an Australia total of 284 built on Steve Smith's superb 144 in his first Test since completing a 12-month ban for ball-tampering. But England had a hundred hero of their own in Burns, 125 not out after batting through the whole of Friday's play. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 38. In a match where umpires Joel Wilson and Aleem Dar had both seen several decisions overturned, Burns had enjoyed a lucky break when given not out on 21 in response to an lbw appeal from Lyon. Replays showed the ball would have hit the left-hander's leg stump, but Australia decided against a review. Stokes got England going on a sunny Saturday morning with an on-driven four off James Pattinson after the fast bowler came round the wicket. A quick single then saw Stokes to a 95-ball fifty featuring eight fours. But Stokes was out for exactly 50 to the next ball he faced when he cut loosely at Cummins and was caught behind by Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine. Stokes, in his first match since being restored to the England vice-captaincy following an acquittal on a charge of affray last year, shared a stand of 88 with Burns that had taken England to 282-5. New batsman Jonny Bairstow gave England the lead when he clipped Pattinson for four through midwicket. Burns only managed three runs in Saturday's first hour, before driving Peter Siddle for a four through cover-point. But Lyon, who had repeatedly beaten Burns's bat on Friday, finally ended the Surrey captain's marathon innings when a delivery that turned and bounce took the outside edge and was well caught by Paine. Burns faced 312 balls, with 17 fours. By contrast, new batsman Moeen Ali lasted just five balls before he inexplicably shouldered arms to Lyon and was clean bowled for a duck -- the eighth time the spinner had dismissed him in 10 Ashes innings. Then 300-7 became 300-8 when Bairstow's reckless shot outside off stump against paceman Siddle was well caught at first slip by David Warner. England now led by just 16 runs, with their two batsmen in the middle -- Woakes and Broad - then each on nought. But Woakes, on his Warwickshire home ground, hoisted Lyon for a legside six to the delight of the crowd.

Ashes - 1st Test, Day 3: Australia's Lyon sparks England collapse

Steve Waugh says the Ashes are too close to call as England and Australia prepare to resume battle, with the visitors seeking their first away win in the series for 18 years.

With the exception of the 2010/11 series in Australia, which England won 3-1, home advantage has been decisive since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 away in 2001.

But the former Australia captain, 54, said it was "50-50" as to who would emerge triumphant over the course of the five Tests starting at Edgbaston on Thursday.

"I really believe it's a big ask for the fast bowlers on both sides to play five Tests in six weeks and that could have a big impact on the whole series, so for instance Jimmy Anderson gets injured, or Mitchell Starc gets injured for us, it could really affect the line-up.&nbsp;

"Depth in the squad will be important but I honestly think if I was a betting man I wouldn't back either side because I don't know who's going to win. It's going to be that even. I think it's going to be a fantastic series."

Waugh, who is mentoring the Australians, said it was a mystery why Australia had not won in England for so long but his advice to the players would be to "make your own history".

"We've come up against some really good England sides in those last 18 years. We've had some tight series and moments when we could have won the series, probably a bit like the other way round for England in that period where they lost a lot."&nbsp;

World Cup boost?

England go into the series buoyed by winning the World Cup for the first time -- they beat 2015 champions Australia in the semi-final --&nbsp;but Waugh said that triumph would have no impact on the Ashes.

"One-day cricket is irrelevant to Test cricket," he said. "They're different teams, different captains. It's a different sport really. If you compare Test cricket and one-day cricket you're almost not playing the same sport. It's played in a totally different way.

"England will say it's important for everyone and sure, if you win that's great but when it comes to the first Test at Edgbaston it's not going to matter what happened in the one-day World Cup."

The first Test is taking place in Birmingham, where England have not lost since 2008, but Waugh said he would be telling his players to put that out of their minds.&nbsp;

"I've won there in Ashes contests," he said. "I think if you start believing something and building it up it becomes true but in my mind it shouldn't be an issue."

The former skipper, known for his uncompromising approach on the field, said he expected some rough treatment from English crowds for Steve Smith and Dave Warner.

The two batsman were each banned for 12 months over their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Cameron Bancroft, also named in the Test squad, was banned for nine months.

But Waugh said Australia had turned a corner.

"Australia had to reset and revisit a few things, which is unfortunate because of what happened. I think they're in good shape. (Test captain) Tim Paine's done a really good job and he's a good leader. Hopefully you'll still see the Australian team play the Aussie way on the field.&nbsp;

"We've got to be combative and play in a positive frame of mind because that's the way we play our cricket."

He added: "Things culminated in Cape Town and were out of control there and there were a couple of ordinary series between different sides.... It did get to the point when it was over the top and something needed to be done so unfortunately for the guys involved they were the ones that paid the price.

"The good thing is now that everyone knows where the line is and you can't cross that line. It was great for kids too because kids all round the world saw that, particularly in Australia, and it was a good lesson as to what's right and wrong."

Steve Waugh says the Ashes are too close to call as England and Australia prepare to resume battle, with the visitors seeking their first away win in the series for 18 years.

Steve Waugh says the Ashes are too close to call as England and Australia prepare to resume battle, with the visitors seeking their first away win in the series for 18 years. With the exception of the 2010/11 series in Australia, which England won 3-1, home advantage has been decisive since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 away in 2001. But the former Australia captain, 54, said it was "50-50" as to who would emerge triumphant over the course of the five Tests starting at Edgbaston on Thursday. "I really believe it's a big ask for the fast bowlers on both sides to play five Tests in six weeks and that could have a big impact on the whole series, so for instance Jimmy Anderson gets injured, or Mitchell Starc gets injured for us, it could really affect the line-up. "Depth in the squad will be important but I honestly think if I was a betting man I wouldn't back either side because I don't know who's going to win. It's going to be that even. I think it's going to be a fantastic series." Waugh, who is mentoring the Australians, said it was a mystery why Australia had not won in England for so long but his advice to the players would be to "make your own history". "We've come up against some really good England sides in those last 18 years. We've had some tight series and moments when we could have won the series, probably a bit like the other way round for England in that period where they lost a lot." World Cup boost? England go into the series buoyed by winning the World Cup for the first time -- they beat 2015 champions Australia in the semi-final -- but Waugh said that triumph would have no impact on the Ashes. "One-day cricket is irrelevant to Test cricket," he said. "They're different teams, different captains. It's a different sport really. If you compare Test cricket and one-day cricket you're almost not playing the same sport. It's played in a totally different way. "England will say it's important for everyone and sure, if you win that's great but when it comes to the first Test at Edgbaston it's not going to matter what happened in the one-day World Cup." The first Test is taking place in Birmingham, where England have not lost since 2008, but Waugh said he would be telling his players to put that out of their minds. "I've won there in Ashes contests," he said. "I think if you start believing something and building it up it becomes true but in my mind it shouldn't be an issue." The former skipper, known for his uncompromising approach on the field, said he expected some rough treatment from English crowds for Steve Smith and Dave Warner. The two batsman were each banned for 12 months over their involvement in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year. Cameron Bancroft, also named in the Test squad, was banned for nine months. But Waugh said Australia had turned a corner. "Australia had to reset and revisit a few things, which is unfortunate because of what happened. I think they're in good shape. (Test captain) Tim Paine's done a really good job and he's a good leader. Hopefully you'll still see the Australian team play the Aussie way on the field. "We've got to be combative and play in a positive frame of mind because that's the way we play our cricket." He added: "Things culminated in Cape Town and were out of control there and there were a couple of ordinary series between different sides.... It did get to the point when it was over the top and something needed to be done so unfortunately for the guys involved they were the ones that paid the price. "The good thing is now that everyone knows where the line is and you can't cross that line. It was great for kids too because kids all round the world saw that, particularly in Australia, and it was a good lesson as to what's right and wrong."

Ashes contest too close to call, says former Australia captain Steve Waugh

Fast bowler James Anderson will miss England's one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's as he recovers from a calf injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Tuesday.

Anderson, 36, tore his right calf when playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month, but was included in the 13-man squad for the four-day match against Ireland, which begins on Wednesday.

"He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement.

Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the Ashes series against Australia.

Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains.

Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection.

Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Fast bowler James Anderson will miss England's one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's as he recovers from a calf injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Tuesday.

Fast bowler James Anderson will miss England's one-off Test against Ireland at Lord's as he recovers from a calf injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Tuesday. Anderson, 36, tore his right calf when playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month, but was included in the 13-man squad for the four-day match against Ireland, which begins on Wednesday. "He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement. Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the Ashes series against Australia. Fast bowlers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer, part of the World Cup-winning one-day team, were not available for selection for the Ireland Test because both have suffered side strains. Wood has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Archer will have a period of rest before being considered for Ashes selection. Having been awarded Test status in 2017, Ireland are chasing their first win in the longest format after losses to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

England's James Anderson ruled out of Ireland Test with calf injury

Australia captain Aaron Finch admitted his side were "outplayed" by England after the World Cup holders saw their reign ended in a semi-final thumping on Thursday.

Despite winning the toss and batting first, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-australia-by-eight-wickets-to-reach-world-cup-final-235127">Finch's team were humbled as they collapsed to 223 all out</a> before allowing England to sweep to victory in just 32.1 overs.

Losing to their arch-rivals in front of a gleeful Edgbaston crowd was a painful way for Australia to surrender the trophy they had won four times in the past five tournaments.

But Finch, who was out for a duck, conceded England had been far superior.&nbsp;

"We were totally outplayed today. We expected the new ball to seam a little but they bowled a great length, hitting the stumps a lot," Finch said.

"We had to have a lot things go right for us. We had to take our chances and bowl them out.&nbsp;

"We tried to take wickets but when you are aggressive with the ball and they are aggressive with the bat, things can happen very quickly."

England openers Jason Roy, who hit 85 from 65 balls, and Jonny Bairstow, who made 34, took the game away from Australia with a superb 124-run partnership for the first wicket.

"They played exceptionally well. We know how dominant they are when they get on top. You've got a very good cricket team in England," Finch said.

Although Australia had beaten England easily in the group stage at Lord's, they were a shadow of the team that eased into the semi-finals with seven wins from nine matches.

For just the second time in the past seven World Cups, Australia have failed to make the final, but Finch said he was proud of his team's efforts 12 months after they were crushed 5-0 by England in a one-day international series.

"We have a lot of positives from the campaign. We've come a long way from when we were in England a year ago," he said.

"We came here thinking we could win the tournament. We've had backs to the wall and character shown and I'm proud of how the group have progressed but it still hurts."

Australia captain Aaron Finch admitted his side were "outplayed" by England after the World Cup holders saw their reign ended in a semi-final thumping on Thursday.

Australia captain Aaron Finch admitted his side were "outplayed" by England after the World Cup holders saw their reign ended in a semi-final thumping on Thursday. Despite winning the toss and batting first, Finch's team were humbled as they collapsed to 223 all out before allowing England to sweep to victory in just 32.1 overs. Losing to their arch-rivals in front of a gleeful Edgbaston crowd was a painful way for Australia to surrender the trophy they had won four times in the past five tournaments. But Finch, who was out for a duck, conceded England had been far superior. "We were totally outplayed today. We expected the new ball to seam a little but they bowled a great length, hitting the stumps a lot," Finch said. "We had to have a lot things go right for us. We had to take our chances and bowl them out. "We tried to take wickets but when you are aggressive with the ball and they are aggressive with the bat, things can happen very quickly." England openers Jason Roy, who hit 85 from 65 balls, and Jonny Bairstow, who made 34, took the game away from Australia with a superb 124-run partnership for the first wicket. "They played exceptionally well. We know how dominant they are when they get on top. You've got a very good cricket team in England," Finch said. Although Australia had beaten England easily in the group stage at Lord's, they were a shadow of the team that eased into the semi-finals with seven wins from nine matches. For just the second time in the past seven World Cups, Australia have failed to make the final, but Finch said he was proud of his team's efforts 12 months after they were crushed 5-0 by England in a one-day international series. "We have a lot of positives from the campaign. We've come a long way from when we were in England a year ago," he said. "We came here thinking we could win the tournament. We've had backs to the wall and character shown and I'm proud of how the group have progressed but it still hurts."

Australia 'outplayed' by England in World Cup semi, says Aaron Finch

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-the-fab-four-cricket-world-cup-2019-234111">Australia's </a>new squad member <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-shaun-marsh-ruled-out-of-world-cup-peter-handscomb-named-replacement-233184&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj94ZTF4anjAhU2_XMBHc0QAjEQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2hx6LRxqlfQb4r5rsIJm68">Peter Handscomb</a> will be thrust into the cauldron of Thursday's World Cup semi-final against England as a replacement for Usman Khawaja, coach Justin Langer has said.

Langer also confirmed that all-rounder Marcus Stoinis had passed a fitness test and was ready for Edgbaston while refusing to guarantee the mercurial Glenn Maxwell a place in the team.

With Matthew Wade in reserve after showing good form for Australia A, Maxwell could be dislodged by the former first-choice wicketkeeper.

"He's played a lot of international cricket before, he's a real seasoned pro, he's had an unbelievable 12 months or so in domestic cricket," Langer said of Wade.

"He's had unbelievable few (games) for Australia A. He's confident, he's a had a little baby so he's pretty happy with life at the moment.''

"With his experience, if he plays, then we're confident he'll do a really good job," Langer said.

Handscomb missed out on a place in the original squad, having to make way as Steve Smith and David Warner were reinstated after their ball-tampering bans expired.

"He deserves it, he was really stiff not to be on this tour," Langer said. "He was so unlucky not to be in the initial squad after what he'd done to help us get to that point.''

"He's in good form, he played well for Australia A, he gives us nice balance through that middle order, he's got great temperament, he plays the spin well and he's on top of his game. So he'll definitely play."

Stoinis, who has battled two side strains, bowled and batted in the nets during training on Tuesday to be given the all-clear but Langer stopped short of saying whether he and fellow all-rounder Maxwell would make the 11 on Thursday.

Maxwell has struggled with the short ball at the tournament and was peppered with bouncers during a net session earlier in the week, getting hit on the forearm by a rising <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-mitchell-starc-five-for-trumps-boult-hat-trick-as-australia-beat-new-zealand-231633&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi59om14anjAhVB63MBHcj_BUAQFjAIegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1O0RK_IToXd6i4p2-pz_nN">Mitchell Starc</a> delivery that left him screaming in pain.

Australian media reported on Tuesday that Langer took the Melbourne man aside for a long chat during training.

The champions, bidding for a sixth World Cup title, suffered a surprise 10-run loss to South Africa in their last round-robin game, a defeat that left them facing a resurgent <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australia-reach-semis-with-64-run-win-over-arch-rivals-england-230432&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl94ea4anjAhWh_XMBHeXJCxoQFjAIegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Wpw_0gGwU8UWEsWrsSnDD">England </a>rather than out-of-form New Zealand in Manchester.

Rain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rain-may-play-spoilsport-again-on-reserve-day-at-manchester-in-india-vs-new-zealand-semi-final-1-234530">washed out</a> play in the other semi-final on Tuesday, with India's bowlers restricting 2015 finalists New Zealand to 211 for five in 46.1 overs.

The match is to continue from where it left off later on Wednesday.

Australia's new squad member Peter Handscomb will be thrust into the cauldron of Thursday's World Cup semi-final against England as a replacement for Usman Khawaja, coach Justin Langer has said.

Australia's new squad member Peter Handscomb will be thrust into the cauldron of Thursday's World Cup semi-final against England as a replacement for Usman Khawaja, coach Justin Langer has said. Langer also confirmed that all-rounder Marcus Stoinis had passed a fitness test and was ready for Edgbaston while refusing to guarantee the mercurial Glenn Maxwell a place in the team. With Matthew Wade in reserve after showing good form for Australia A, Maxwell could be dislodged by the former first-choice wicketkeeper. "He's played a lot of international cricket before, he's a real seasoned pro, he's had an unbelievable 12 months or so in domestic cricket," Langer said of Wade. "He's had unbelievable few (games) for Australia A. He's confident, he's a had a little baby so he's pretty happy with life at the moment.'' "With his experience, if he plays, then we're confident he'll do a really good job," Langer said. Handscomb missed out on a place in the original squad, having to make way as Steve Smith and David Warner were reinstated after their ball-tampering bans expired. "He deserves it, he was really stiff not to be on this tour," Langer said. "He was so unlucky not to be in the initial squad after what he'd done to help us get to that point.'' "He's in good form, he played well for Australia A, he gives us nice balance through that middle order, he's got great temperament, he plays the spin well and he's on top of his game. So he'll definitely play." Stoinis, who has battled two side strains, bowled and batted in the nets during training on Tuesday to be given the all-clear but Langer stopped short of saying whether he and fellow all-rounder Maxwell would make the 11 on Thursday. Maxwell has struggled with the short ball at the tournament and was peppered with bouncers during a net session earlier in the week, getting hit on the forearm by a rising Mitchell Starc delivery that left him screaming in pain. Australian media reported on Tuesday that Langer took the Melbourne man aside for a long chat during training. The champions, bidding for a sixth World Cup title, suffered a surprise 10-run loss to South Africa in their last round-robin game, a defeat that left them facing a resurgent England rather than out-of-form New Zealand in Manchester. Rain washed out play in the other semi-final on Tuesday, with India's bowlers restricting 2015 finalists New Zealand to 211 for five in 46.1 overs. The match is to continue from where it left off later on Wednesday.

World Cup: Peter Handscomb, Marcus Stoinis to be in Australia's playing XI for semi-final vs England