Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings.

With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398.

Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia.

All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month.

'Incredibly special'

"I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps.

"But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life.&nbsp;It's incredibly special."

He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this."

Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman.

Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult.

"It's daunting to be honest," he explained.&nbsp;"Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts.&nbsp;

"He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match.&nbsp;

"When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special."

England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player."

England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match.

Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match.

"A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted.

England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease.&nbsp;

Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day.&nbsp;

"We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Australia's Steve Smith insisted he had never lost faith in his ability as his "dream comeback" to Test cricket continued with a second hundred in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston. Smith made 142 in Australia's second innings 487-7 declared on Sunday after the star batsman's 144 bailed them out to 284 following a collapse to 122-8 in their first innings. With Matthew Wade making 110 on the fourth day as well, Australia set England an imposing target of 398. Former Australia captain Smith and then deputy David Warner were both given 12-month bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal last year, with Cameron Bancroft -- who actually applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town -- hit with a nine-month suspension by Cricket Australia. All three batsmen are making their Test returns in this match, although Smith and Warner's international comeback came during the World Cup, where Australia lost to eventual champions England in an Edgbaston semi-final last month. 'Incredibly special' "I've never doubted my ability," Smith told reporters after stumps. "But, it's kind of a dream comeback in a way. To be able to score two hundreds in a match, in the first Ashes match, it's something I have never done in any form of cricket before in my life. It's incredibly special." He added: "It feels like Christmas morning every morning getting to come and do this." Sunday was also memorable for Wade, once Australia's wicketkeeper but now selected as a specialist batsman. Wade, whose hundred was his first in Ashes cricket, had the best view at a packed Edgbaston while helping Smith add 126 for the fifth wicket, but said batting with him could be difficult. "It's daunting to be honest," he explained. "Sometimes he makes it look way too easy and it hurts. "He said to me the other day at breakfast he'd never scored a hundred in both innings of a Test match. "When he said that, I thought we were going to be in for something special." England batting coach Graham Thorpe praised Smith's two innings by saying: "In many ways you have to admire it and appreciate you are watching someone who is a fantastic player." England were without James Anderson for the whole of Australia's second innings after their all-time leading Test wicket-taker remained sidelined with a calf injury that meant he bowled just four overs in the match. Anderson missed last week's Test win over Ireland with calf trouble but former England batsman Thorpe defended the decision to bring him back for this match. "A guy who has played as many Test matches as he has, we have to trust his view," he insisted. England will resume Monday on 13-0, with Rory Burns, fresh from his maiden Test century in the first innings, and Jason Roy at the crease. Only one of England's previous 33 home Tests has ended in a draw but Thorpe backed his side to bat out the day. "We have got the character and the challenge is ahead of our guys tomorrow," he said. "It will not be easy but this is Test cricket."

'Like Christmas every day': Steve Smith revels in 'dream' Test return

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match.

England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29.

Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58)

England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50;&nbsp;P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112)

Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3)

C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7 
D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8 
U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;40 
S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;142&nbsp; 
T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;51 
M. Wade c Denly b Stokes&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;110 
T. Paine b Ali&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;34 
J. Pattinson not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;47 
P. Cummins not out&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;26 
Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;22

Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;487

Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon

Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) 
Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0

England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson

Match position: England set 398 to win&nbsp;

Toss: Australia

Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK)

TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL)

Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Australia set England an imposing target of 398 to win the first Ashes Test after the visitors declared their second innings on 487-7 late on the fourth day at Edgbaston on Sunday. Steve Smith made 142, his second hundred of the match, in his first Test since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Matthew Wade scored 110 as Australia piled on the runs against an England attack missing James Anderson, unable to bowl after breaking down with a calf injury earlier in the match. England will need to set a new national record if they are to achieve an unlikely victory. The most they have ever made in the fourth innings to win a Test is 332-7 against Australia at Melbourne, back in 1928/29. Australia 1st Innings 284 (S Smith 144; S Broad 5-86, C Woakes 3-58) England 1st Innings 374 (R Burns 133, J Root 57, B Stokes 50; P Cummins 3-84, N Lyon 3-112) Australia 2nd Innings (overnight: 124-3) C. Bancroft c Buttler b Ali 7 D. Warner c Bairstow b Broad 8 U. Khawaja c Bairstow b Stokes 40 S. Smith c Bairstow b Woakes 142 T. Head c Bairstow b Stokes 51 M. Wade c Denly b Stokes 110 T. Paine b Ali 34 J. Pattinson not out 47 P. Cummins not out 26 Extras (b11, lb2, nb6, w3) 22 Total (7 wickets declared, 112 overs, 500 mins) 487 Did not bat: P Siddle, N Lyon Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Warner), 2-27 (Bancroft), 3-75 (Khawaja), 4-205 (Head), 5-331 (Smith), 6-407 (Wade), 7-409 (Paine) Bowling: Broad 22-2-91-1 (1w); Woakes 13-1-46-1 (1w); Ali 29-1-130-2 (2nb); Root 12-1-50-0; Stokes 22-5-85-3 (4nb, 1w); Denly 14-1-72-0 England: Rory Burns, Jason Roy, Joe Root (capt), Joe Denly, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson Match position: England set 398 to win Toss: Australia Umpires: Joel Wilson (WIS), Aleem Dar (PAK) TV umpire: Chris Gaffaney (NZL) Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI)

Australia set England 398 to win first Ashes Test

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03).

He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room.

And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa.

The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings.

That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs.

Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground.

Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four.

Australia's Steve Smith scored his second hundred of his comeback Test when he reached three figures against England in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Sunday. Smith, 98 not out at lunch on the fourth day, cover-drove fast bowler Stuart Broad for a boundary early in the second session to complete a 147-ball century with his 10th four. That followed his 144 in the first innings of what is the former Australia captain's first Test since the end of a12-month ban for his role in last year's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Smith is now just the fifth Australia batsman to have made hundreds in both innings of an Ashes Test, following Warren Bardsley (1909), Arthur Morris (1946/47), Steve Waugh (1997) and Matthew Hayden (2002/03). He celebrated by removing his batting helmet and waving his bat joyously towards the Australia changing room. And while there was some applause from a packed crowd, there were also renewed chants of "Crying on the telly, we saw you crying on the telly" in a reference to the emotional press conference Smith gave in Sydney after he was sent home from South Africa. The match in Birmingham has also seen the return to Test cricket of Australia's David Warner and Cameron Bancroft who, like Smith, both received lengthy bans for their parts in the ball-tampering incident that took place during a Test against South Africa in Cape Town. When Smith, long one of the world's leading batsmen, completed his latest century -- his 25th in 65 Tests -- Australia were 236-4 in their second innings. That gave them a significant lead of 146 runs. Only three times have a side made more than 150 in the fourth innings to win a Test at Edgbaston, with the highest such total South Africa's 283-5 in a five-wicket win 11 years ago -- the last time England lost at the Birmingham ground. Ashes-holders Australia are looking to win their first Test series away to England since 2001.

Ashes 2019: Australia's Steve Smith scores second hundred of comeback Test

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day.

England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015.

Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130.

The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four. Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day. England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015. Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130. The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Unbeaten Steve Smith puts Australia in strong position to earn Ashes advantage

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy'&nbsp;Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game.&nbsp;

"I read a bit of that stuff this morning, with people online going on about the fact he shouldn`t be doing it because he's not captain. That's an absolute load of rubbish. He's not captain. He's not tossing the coin and he's not picking the team. But an experienced guy like him with a cricket brain that he's got, Tim would be silly to not try and tap into that and not try to use him when he can," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying.

Ponting's comments came in after Smith was seen offering advice to bowlers and discussing with Paine on numerous occasions during the first Ashes Test match. Smith is not allowed to be the team's captain until March 2020 because of his involvement in the last year's ball-tampering scandal.

Ponting said that the team relies on Smith heavily.

"He's served his time as far as his playing suspension goes and everyone knows he can't captain again until next year. He's part of a team that is relying on him heavily for his experience, so he can help in whichever way and wherever he possibly can," he said.

Ponting further said,&nbsp;"And I'm sure if Painey or anyone around the team wasn't happy with it, then it wouldn't be happening."&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy' Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavishly praised 'experienced guy' Steve Smith and said that it would be silly if Tim Paine does not use him on the field to strategise the game. "I read a bit of that stuff this morning, with people online going on about the fact he shouldn`t be doing it because he's not captain. That's an absolute load of rubbish. He's not captain. He's not tossing the coin and he's not picking the team. But an experienced guy like him with a cricket brain that he's got, Tim would be silly to not try and tap into that and not try to use him when he can," Cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. Ponting's comments came in after Smith was seen offering advice to bowlers and discussing with Paine on numerous occasions during the first Ashes Test match. Smith is not allowed to be the team's captain until March 2020 because of his involvement in the last year's ball-tampering scandal. Ponting said that the team relies on Smith heavily. "He's served his time as far as his playing suspension goes and everyone knows he can't captain again until next year. He's part of a team that is relying on him heavily for his experience, so he can help in whichever way and wherever he possibly can," he said. Ponting further said, "And I'm sure if Painey or anyone around the team wasn't happy with it, then it wouldn't be happening."

Ricky Ponting feels Tim Paine should use Steve Smith's experience

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

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday.

Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries.

England lost three wickets for four runs before lunch to slump to 300-8 -- just 16 runs ahead.

But a ninth-wicket stand of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Stuart Broad (29) boosted their total.

Last man James Anderson came out to bat despite suffering a calf injury earlier in the match that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs in Australia's first innings.

Woakes then declined clear singles in what appeared to be both a bid to keep the strike and reduce the amount of running between the wickets required by Anderson, who was eventually last man out for three when caught slog-sweeping off Nathan Lyon.

Fast bowler Pat Cummins led Australia's attack with 3-84 in 33&nbsp;overs on an increasingly placid pitch, with off-spinner Lyon taking 3-112 in 43.5 overs.&nbsp;

Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England for 18 years.

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries.

England were dismissed for 374 in reply to Australia's first-innings 284, a lead of 90 runs, on the third day of the first Test at Edgbaston on Saturday. Rory Burns batted for nearly eight hours to top-score with 133, his maiden Test hundred, in an innings where England captain Joe Root (57) and vice-captain Ben Stokes (50) both hit half-centuries. England lost three wickets for four runs before lunch to slump to 300-8 -- just 16 runs ahead. But a ninth-wicket stand of 65 between Chris Woakes, who made 37 not out on his Warwickshire home ground, and Stuart Broad (29) boosted their total. Last man James Anderson came out to bat despite suffering a calf injury earlier in the match that meant England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker only bowled four overs in Australia's first innings. Woakes then declined clear singles in what appeared to be both a bid to keep the strike and reduce the amount of running between the wickets required by Anderson, who was eventually last man out for three when caught slog-sweeping off Nathan Lyon. Fast bowler Pat Cummins led Australia's attack with 3-84 in 33 overs on an increasingly placid pitch, with off-spinner Lyon taking 3-112 in 43.5 overs. Australia hold the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England for 18 years.

England 374 all out against Australia in 1st Ashes Test

Rory Burns's unbeaten maiden Test century saw him defy Australia for more than six-and-a-half hours as he led a determined England batting effort in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Friday.&nbsp;

England were 267-4 at stumps on the second day of the first Test, just 17 runs behind Australia's first-innings 284.

Ashes debutant Burns was 125 not out, with the Surrey left-handed opener, whose innings started on Thursday, receiving a huge ovation from the crowd as he walked off

England vice-captain Ben Stokes was 38 not out, having helped Burns add an unbroken 73.&nbsp;

Australia's total had been built on a superb 144 from Steve Smith in the former captain's first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

England, dismissed for just 85 in the first innings of their Test win against Ireland at Lord's last week, resumed on 10-0 with Burns four not out and Surrey team-mate Jason Roy on six.

Roy made a blistering 85 in eventual champions England's World Cup semi-final win over Australia at Edgbaston last month.

But he never looked comfortable on Friday and, on 10, he edged fast bowler James Pattinson low to Smith at second slip, with England then 22-1.

Captain Joe Root had returned to No 3 in a bid to lead from the front.

Fortune favours England

But he was almost bowled leaving off-spinner Nathan Lyon's sharply turning first ball.

The star batsman had an even luckier break on nine when given out caught behind off Pattinson only for his review to reveal the ball had hit the off stump without dislodging a bail.

Meanwhile, Burns was content to pick off anything loose, including an over-pitched ball from Pat Cummins he on-drove for four.

Root had another moment of good fortune when given out lbw to recalled paceman Peter Siddle on 14.&nbsp;

But in a match already full of overturned decisions, his immediate review revealed an inside edge.

Root cashed in as he too, like Burns, completed a 110-ball fifty.

But frustratingly for Root, whose conversion rate of the fifties to hundreds is relatively poor -- 42 to 16 --, he fell soon afterwards when he chipped a Siddle slower ball back to the bowler, who took a fine one-handed catch to end a second-wicket partnership of 132.

Australia's pacemen allowed Burns, who unusually tilts his head towards the right before every ball he faces in a bid to compensate for a dominant left eye, to settle by repeatedly bowling around the wicket and so feeding him runs on the legside.&nbsp;

By the time they went over the wicket to him, Burns was well set.

Nevertheless Burns, whose previous highest score in eight Tests was the 84 he made against the West Indies at Bridgetown in January, still spent 36 balls in the 'nervous 90s'.&nbsp;

But a quick single off Lyon eventually saw Burns, the man whom England hope will fill a position at opener that has become even more of a problem for them since their all-time leading run-scorer Alastair Cook's international retirement last year, to three figures in 224 balls including 14 fours.

Earlier, Burns could only watch as Joe Denly and Jos Buttler fell cheaply after tea to leave England 194-4.

But all-rounder Stokes helped revive the innings.

The left-handed batsman hit several boundaries off second-string bowling on a sunny afternoon as Australia looked to speed up their over-rate.

And when the tourists took the new ball on a relatively placid pitch, Stokes drove Cummins down the ground for four to huge cheers from fans in the raucous Hollies Stand.

Australia holds the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England in 18 years.&nbsp;

Rory Burns's unbeaten maiden Test century saw him defy Australia for more than six-and-a-half hours as he led a determined England batting effort in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Friday.

Rory Burns's unbeaten maiden Test century saw him defy Australia for more than six-and-a-half hours as he led a determined England batting effort in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston on Friday. England were 267-4 at stumps on the second day of the first Test, just 17 runs behind Australia's first-innings 284. Ashes debutant Burns was 125 not out, with the Surrey left-handed opener, whose innings started on Thursday, receiving a huge ovation from the crowd as he walked off England vice-captain Ben Stokes was 38 not out, having helped Burns add an unbroken 73. Australia's total had been built on a superb 144 from Steve Smith in the former captain's first Test since a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. England, dismissed for just 85 in the first innings of their Test win against Ireland at Lord's last week, resumed on 10-0 with Burns four not out and Surrey team-mate Jason Roy on six. Roy made a blistering 85 in eventual champions England's World Cup semi-final win over Australia at Edgbaston last month. But he never looked comfortable on Friday and, on 10, he edged fast bowler James Pattinson low to Smith at second slip, with England then 22-1. Captain Joe Root had returned to No 3 in a bid to lead from the front. Fortune favours England But he was almost bowled leaving off-spinner Nathan Lyon's sharply turning first ball. The star batsman had an even luckier break on nine when given out caught behind off Pattinson only for his review to reveal the ball had hit the off stump without dislodging a bail. Meanwhile, Burns was content to pick off anything loose, including an over-pitched ball from Pat Cummins he on-drove for four. Root had another moment of good fortune when given out lbw to recalled paceman Peter Siddle on 14. But in a match already full of overturned decisions, his immediate review revealed an inside edge. Root cashed in as he too, like Burns, completed a 110-ball fifty. But frustratingly for Root, whose conversion rate of the fifties to hundreds is relatively poor -- 42 to 16 --, he fell soon afterwards when he chipped a Siddle slower ball back to the bowler, who took a fine one-handed catch to end a second-wicket partnership of 132. Australia's pacemen allowed Burns, who unusually tilts his head towards the right before every ball he faces in a bid to compensate for a dominant left eye, to settle by repeatedly bowling around the wicket and so feeding him runs on the legside. By the time they went over the wicket to him, Burns was well set. Nevertheless Burns, whose previous highest score in eight Tests was the 84 he made against the West Indies at Bridgetown in January, still spent 36 balls in the 'nervous 90s'. But a quick single off Lyon eventually saw Burns, the man whom England hope will fill a position at opener that has become even more of a problem for them since their all-time leading run-scorer Alastair Cook's international retirement last year, to three figures in 224 balls including 14 fours. Earlier, Burns could only watch as Joe Denly and Jos Buttler fell cheaply after tea to leave England 194-4. But all-rounder Stokes helped revive the innings. The left-handed batsman hit several boundaries off second-string bowling on a sunny afternoon as Australia looked to speed up their over-rate. And when the tourists took the new ball on a relatively placid pitch, Stokes drove Cummins down the ground for four to huge cheers from fans in the raucous Hollies Stand. Australia holds the Ashes but they have not won a Test series away to England in 18 years.

Rory Burns's maiden Test century frustrates Australia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-steve-smith-not-bothered-by-being-booed-during-edgbaston-test-240126">Steve Smith</a>'s father <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-father-throws-out-his-cricket-gear-127586">Peter Smith</a> commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston.&nbsp;

Former Australian skipper is playing his first Test after returning from a year-long suspension for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

He smashed his 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd.

But Smith's father praised the epic century and said was emotional watching him get his hundred.&nbsp;

"I must admit, to begin with, I had more trepidation than I probably ever have had, which was strange. Then it all unfolded and it became emotional. It was emotional watching him get his hundred. And I’m still quite a bit emotional about it," Steve Smith's father Peter Smith told The Daily Telegraph on Saturday.

"I think there was probably relief from his point of view, and you share it with him," he added.&nbsp;

"He had worked very, very hard to get to that point. That was one thing he did say to me, it was one of the hardest innings he’s had to play. And you could see that in that hundred. And you could see the effect that it was having on him," said Peter.&nbsp;

"It’s been difficult but you just concentrate on what you can control. You can’t do anything else. There’s no point," he said.

"You work on what you can control, what you can do to help. Putting balls in the ball machine, things like that. You have to work on that only and that’s what we did. Worked on what we could control."

On being asked about whether the Edgbaston ton has been one of Smith's best, he replied, "I think the innings he played in Brisbane at the beginning of the last Ashes was one of his best."

"But this one, given the context of all that has gone to get to that point now, and he played under a lot of pressure as people fell around him … that probably made it. If it’s not his best, it’s way up there," Peter added.&nbsp;

Steve Smith's father Peter Smith commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston.

Steve Smith's father Peter Smith commented on his son's brilliant century that brought Australia back into the match after they were struggling at 122 for 8 at one stage against England during Ashes opener in Edgbaston. Former Australian skipper is playing his first Test after returning from a year-long suspension for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal. He smashed his 24th Test century and probably one of his most important but he was greeted with boos by the hostile English crowd. But Smith's father praised the epic century and said was emotional watching him get his hundred. "I must admit, to begin with, I had more trepidation than I probably ever have had, which was strange. Then it all unfolded and it became emotional. It was emotional watching him get his hundred. And I’m still quite a bit emotional about it," Steve Smith's father Peter Smith told The Daily Telegraph on Saturday. "I think there was probably relief from his point of view, and you share it with him," he added. "He had worked very, very hard to get to that point. That was one thing he did say to me, it was one of the hardest innings he’s had to play. And you could see that in that hundred. And you could see the effect that it was having on him," said Peter. "It’s been difficult but you just concentrate on what you can control. You can’t do anything else. There’s no point," he said. "You work on what you can control, what you can do to help. Putting balls in the ball machine, things like that. You have to work on that only and that’s what we did. Worked on what we could control." On being asked about whether the Edgbaston ton has been one of Smith's best, he replied, "I think the innings he played in Brisbane at the beginning of the last Ashes was one of his best." "But this one, given the context of all that has gone to get to that point now, and he played under a lot of pressure as people fell around him … that probably made it. If it’s not his best, it’s way up there," Peter added.

Steve Smith's father comments on his son's epic Ashes century

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out for the rest of the season, including the current Ashes series against Australia, due to a side strain and a knee injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

Wood, who picked up the side strain during England's win over New Zealand in the 50-over World Cup final last month, also had knee surgery this week to clear up excess cartilage.

"As a result of these injuries, he will be unavailable for any cricket for the remainder of the season," the ECB was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Wood was England's second-highest wicket-taker at the World Cup with 18 in 10 matches after Jofra Archer on 20.

England are struggling with injuries in the bowling department with Archer, who also suffered a side strain, left out for the first Test against Australia and James Anderson re-injuring his calf during his opening spell on Thursday.

Anderson battled to be fit for the series opener at Edgbaston after picking up an injury playing for his county, Lancashire, last month and bowled only four overs on Thursday before he left the field and did not return.

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out for the rest of the season, including the current Ashes series against Australia, due to a side strain and a knee injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

England fast bowler Mark Wood has been ruled out for the rest of the season, including the current Ashes series against Australia, due to a side strain and a knee injury, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday. Wood, who picked up the side strain during England's win over New Zealand in the 50-over World Cup final last month, also had knee surgery this week to clear up excess cartilage. "As a result of these injuries, he will be unavailable for any cricket for the remainder of the season," the ECB was quoted as saying by the BBC. Wood was England's second-highest wicket-taker at the World Cup with 18 in 10 matches after Jofra Archer on 20. England are struggling with injuries in the bowling department with Archer, who also suffered a side strain, left out for the first Test against Australia and James Anderson re-injuring his calf during his opening spell on Thursday. Anderson battled to be fit for the series opener at Edgbaston after picking up an injury playing for his county, Lancashire, last month and bowled only four overs on Thursday before he left the field and did not return.

England's Mark Wood ruled out of Ashes series through injury

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

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday.

Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1.

"It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports.

"I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows.

"The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order."

Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year.

The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month.

"He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday.

Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test 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 team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign.

Opening batsman Jason Roy and fast bowler Olly Stone will make their England Test debuts in a one-off match against Ireland starting at Lord's on Wednesday. Surrey batsman Roy is set to earn his first Test cap after racking up an impressive 443 runs in England's triumphant 50-overs World Cup campaign. Roy is poised to bat at the top of the order with Surrey teammate Rory Burns in a four-day match against Ireland and will have an opportunity to impress the selectors ahead of the Ashes series against Australia starting on Aug. 1. "It's a very, very new challenge and something I have been excited for and nervous for the last couple of years," Roy told Sky Sports. "I have been in a good place with my cricket and feel in the best place I can be to succeed. Whether that is the case, I don't know, no one knows. "The reason I have been so successful in the last couple of years and playing such good cricket at the top of the order is because my defence has been in really good order." Warwickshire paceman Stone will make his debut having recovered from a back injury that forced him to return home from England's tour of West Indies earlier this year. The 25-year-old was included in the lineup after the experienced James Anderson failed to recover from a calf injury, which he picked up playing for his county Lancashire against Durham this month. "He (Anderson) will continue to be assessed ahead of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on August 1," the ECB said in a statement on Tuesday. Anderson, England's leading wicket-taker in Tests, is one of several England bowlers struggling with injury ahead of the five-Test 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 team v Ireland: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, Rory Burns, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes

Jason Roy and Olly Stone to make Test debuts against Ireland

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

Chris Woakes saluted England's "incredible" eight-wicket demolition of Australia as the hosts swaggered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-australia-by-eight-wickets-to-reach-world-cup-final-235127">into their first World Cup final since 1992</a>.

Woakes won the man-of-the-match award at Edgbaston after taking 3-20 in a lethal eight-over spell that included the key wicket of opener David Warner.

Thanks to Woakes and fellow pacemen Jofra Archer, Australia collapsed to 14-3 and never really recovered as they were dismissed for 223.

England took just 32.1 overs to reach their victory target and book their final date with New Zealand at Lord's on Sunday.

Woakes admitted it was a perfect day for England, who have never won the 50-over World Cup.

"I'm pretty speechless. It was an incredible performance from the whole team, started well with the bowling and then the batting was outstanding," Woakes told Sky Sports.

"The way we have produced the goods shows how good we are and we're really pleased.

"I don't think it was a bad wicket, we just found the right length and they had to rebuild and we kept the pressure on.&nbsp;

"We got off to a flyer and when chasing a relatively small total, that's the difference."

Woakes admitted England's stars had been nervous ahead of their country's first World Cup semi-final since 1992, but they quickly banished the butterflies with a blistering start.

"There were some nerves around this morning, a few anxious people in the dressing room but that's natural," Woakes said.

"I just got my length wrong for the first ball. A world-class player in David Warner is going to put that away. But I got my length right after that and felt good."

England have lost all three of their previous World Cup finals, against Pakistan in 1992, Australia in 1987 and the West Indies in 1979.

Asked how it felt to help take England to within touching distance of their first World Cup crown, Woakes said his team had tried their best to block out the potentially historic nature of their campaign.

"We have tried not to think about getting to the final, it hasn't sunk in yet," he said.

He added: "We were tipped as favourites so it was important to get to the semi-final in the first place and then to win this in this fashion against this Australia side on the best ground in the world is amazing."

Chris Woakes saluted England's "incredible" eight-wicket demolition of Australia as the hosts swaggered into their first World Cup final since 1992. Woakes won the man-of-the-match award at Edgbaston after taking 3-20 in a lethal eight-over spell that included the key wicket of opener David Warner.

Chris Woakes saluted England's "incredible" eight-wicket demolition of Australia as the hosts swaggered into their first World Cup final since 1992. Woakes won the man-of-the-match award at Edgbaston after taking 3-20 in a lethal eight-over spell that included the key wicket of opener David Warner. Thanks to Woakes and fellow pacemen Jofra Archer, Australia collapsed to 14-3 and never really recovered as they were dismissed for 223. England took just 32.1 overs to reach their victory target and book their final date with New Zealand at Lord's on Sunday. Woakes admitted it was a perfect day for England, who have never won the 50-over World Cup. "I'm pretty speechless. It was an incredible performance from the whole team, started well with the bowling and then the batting was outstanding," Woakes told Sky Sports. "The way we have produced the goods shows how good we are and we're really pleased. "I don't think it was a bad wicket, we just found the right length and they had to rebuild and we kept the pressure on. "We got off to a flyer and when chasing a relatively small total, that's the difference." Woakes admitted England's stars had been nervous ahead of their country's first World Cup semi-final since 1992, but they quickly banished the butterflies with a blistering start. "There were some nerves around this morning, a few anxious people in the dressing room but that's natural," Woakes said. "I just got my length wrong for the first ball. A world-class player in David Warner is going to put that away. But I got my length right after that and felt good." England have lost all three of their previous World Cup finals, against Pakistan in 1992, Australia in 1987 and the West Indies in 1979. Asked how it felt to help take England to within touching distance of their first World Cup crown, Woakes said his team had tried their best to block out the potentially historic nature of their campaign. "We have tried not to think about getting to the final, it hasn't sunk in yet," he said. He added: "We were tipped as favourites so it was important to get to the semi-final in the first place and then to win this in this fashion against this Australia side on the best ground in the world is amazing."

Chris Woakes hails 'incredible' England after hosts power into World Cup final

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

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to embrace their World Cup dreams as they prepare for Thursday's blockbuster semi-final against old rivals Australia.

Morgan can lead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-england-face-acid-test-in-world-cup-semi-final-clash-with-australia-234734">England </a>to their first World Cup final since 1992 if they beat the holders at Edgbaston.

Advancing to Sunday's title match at Lord's would be the culmination of four years' hard work for Morgan and his squad after their dismal performance at the 2015 edition.

On the eve of the crunch clash, Morgan issued a passionate plea for his players to take pride in their achievements so far and to relish their moment in the spotlight rather than be weighed down by pressure.

"Sometimes I'm guilty of it, you can lose sight of the position you're in and the fact you're living your dream," Morgan told reporters on Wednesday.

"I think it's possible to play with a smile on your face tomorrow," he added.

Asked if the World Cup hosts were feeling excited, nervous or simply focused on the task at hand, Morgan added,&nbsp;"All of those things. But I think excitement probably should be the dominant one.''

"Everyone is excited to play this semi-final. The fact that through the group stages getting to this stage looked unlikely, or was called into question, makes it even more exciting for us," he said.

Morgan's side have established a proud recent record against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-peter-handscomb-marcus-stoinis-to-be-in-australias-playing-xi-for-semi-final-vs-england-234549">Australia</a>, winning 10 of the last 11 one-day internationals between the old rivals prior to this tournament.

That counted for nothing in the group stages, when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aussie-blow-as-usman-khawaja-ruled-out-of-world-cup-marcus-stoinis-struggles-233940">Australia </a>claimed a 64-run win at Lord's that left England's hopes of a top-four finish in doubt.

Morgan admits England were not themselves in that match, knocked off course by a tame defeat to Sri Lanka and the absence of injured opener Jason Roy.

Roy is back from his torn hamstring and England looked far more formidable in the wins over India and New Zealand that took them to the semi-finals.

"We're probably more confident than we were three games ago, we're a different team," Morgan said.

"The loss against Sri Lanka hurt us. I don't think we were playing anywhere near our best cricket, there was a hangover from the Sri Lanka game. It feels like we're back to the team we are," said Morgan.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to embrace their World Cup dreams as they prepare for Thursday's blockbuster semi-final against old rivals Australia.

England captain Eoin Morgan has urged his side to embrace their World Cup dreams as they prepare for Thursday's blockbuster semi-final against old rivals Australia. Morgan can lead England to their first World Cup final since 1992 if they beat the holders at Edgbaston. Advancing to Sunday's title match at Lord's would be the culmination of four years' hard work for Morgan and his squad after their dismal performance at the 2015 edition. On the eve of the crunch clash, Morgan issued a passionate plea for his players to take pride in their achievements so far and to relish their moment in the spotlight rather than be weighed down by pressure. "Sometimes I'm guilty of it, you can lose sight of the position you're in and the fact you're living your dream," Morgan told reporters on Wednesday. "I think it's possible to play with a smile on your face tomorrow," he added. Asked if the World Cup hosts were feeling excited, nervous or simply focused on the task at hand, Morgan added, "All of those things. But I think excitement probably should be the dominant one.'' "Everyone is excited to play this semi-final. The fact that through the group stages getting to this stage looked unlikely, or was called into question, makes it even more exciting for us," he said. Morgan's side have established a proud recent record against Australia, winning 10 of the last 11 one-day internationals between the old rivals prior to this tournament. That counted for nothing in the group stages, when Australia claimed a 64-run win at Lord's that left England's hopes of a top-four finish in doubt. Morgan admits England were not themselves in that match, knocked off course by a tame defeat to Sri Lanka and the absence of injured opener Jason Roy. Roy is back from his torn hamstring and England looked far more formidable in the wins over India and New Zealand that took them to the semi-finals. "We're probably more confident than we were three games ago, we're a different team," Morgan said. "The loss against Sri Lanka hurt us. I don't think we were playing anywhere near our best cricket, there was a hangover from the Sri Lanka game. It feels like we're back to the team we are," said Morgan.

Eoin Morgan urges England to embrace World Cup 'dream' ahead of semi-final vs Australia

Four years of planning will be put on the line for England when they face holders Australia in a blockbuster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-the-fab-four-cricket-world-cup-2019-234111">Cricket World Cup</a> semi-final at Edgbaston on Thursday.

England's woeful first-round exit at the 2015 edition prompted a complete rethink of their approach to one-day internationals for a side that had long placed Test success above all other considerations.

Australian coach Trevor Bayliss was drafted in with the aim of guiding their bid for a first World Cup title.

The transformation has been impressive, with England climbing to number one in the ODI rankings under the astute captaincy of Eoin Morgan.

Their rise to the summit has been based on dynamic run-scoring, with in-form openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow leading the way.

But the stakes for hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-peter-handscomb-marcus-stoinis-to-be-in-australias-playing-xi-for-semi-final-vs-england-234549">England </a>are higher than simply the winning of a match that would see them into a final against either India or New Zealand at Lord's on Sunday.

Satellite subscription host broadcaster Sky has said it will allow the final to be shown on free-to-air television in Britain - but only if England are involved in the showpiece match.

It would be the first time since 2005 that a major England men's home match had emerged from behind a UK television paywall, with cricket having a chance to reconnect with a 'lost' audience in its birthplace.

Australia, however, have never lost any of their seven previous World Cup semi-finals - although they did tie with South Africa at Edgbaston 20 years ago before advancing into the final on superior net run-rate.

They landed a psychological blow in the group stage when they beat Ashes rivals England by 64 runs at Lord's last month.

Australia left-arm quicks Jason Behrendorff and Mitchell Starc shared nine wickets between them in a match where Australia captain Aaron Finch made 100 after surviving a testing opening from England's fast bowlers.

Roy, however, was missing with a torn hamstring and since his return, England have scored crucial wins over India and New Zealand that took them into the semi-finals.

'Different animal' 
 
By contrast <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-players-to-watch-out-for-in-australia-vs-england-semi-final-clash-234590">Australia</a>, who have not won in any format at Edgbaston since the 2001 Ashes Test, suffered a surprise 10-run defeat by South Africa at Old Trafford in their final group game.

England, as well as finding a way to cope with Starc, will have to contain the run-scoring threat of a powerful Australian top order.

David Warner has scored 638 runs this tournament following the left-handed opener's return to international cricket after a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

But paceman Liam Plunkett insisted England could rise to the occasion.

"We're a different sort of animal compared to our last teams," he said. "We've played well for the past four years, we're ranked number one.''

"We feel on our day we can beat anyone in the world," Plunkett added.

The five-time world champions will pitch late call-up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aussie-blow-as-usman-khawaja-ruled-out-of-world-cup-marcus-stoinis-struggles-233940">Peter Handscomb</a> straight into Thursday's match after fellow batsman Usman Khawaja suffered a tournament-ending hamstring injury against South Africa.

Australia coach Justin Langer led his squad on a barefoot walkabout around Edgbaston on Monday before they shared stories on the outfield in a so-called "bonding circle".

"Haydos (Matthew Hayden) and I used to do it as a bit of a ritual before every Test match," former Australia opener Langer explained.

"If you go back 12 months there wasn't much to be relaxed and chilled about in Australian cricket, was there? We went through a major crisis in our cricket. It didn't just affect our cricket, it affected our country,'' Langer said.

"We've got to work hard on being more humble in what we do and being focused on playing good cricket," he added.

But despite the coach's new-age talk, Australia's Nathan Lyon tried to put pressure on England in typically acerbic style.

"It's all on them," the off-spinner said. "It's their World Cup to lose if you ask me," said Lyon.

Four years of planning will be put on the line for England when they face holders Australia in a blockbuster Cricket World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Four years of planning will be put on the line for England when they face holders Australia in a blockbuster Cricket World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston on Thursday. England's woeful first-round exit at the 2015 edition prompted a complete rethink of their approach to one-day internationals for a side that had long placed Test success above all other considerations. Australian coach Trevor Bayliss was drafted in with the aim of guiding their bid for a first World Cup title. The transformation has been impressive, with England climbing to number one in the ODI rankings under the astute captaincy of Eoin Morgan. Their rise to the summit has been based on dynamic run-scoring, with in-form openers Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow leading the way. But the stakes for hosts England are higher than simply the winning of a match that would see them into a final against either India or New Zealand at Lord's on Sunday. Satellite subscription host broadcaster Sky has said it will allow the final to be shown on free-to-air television in Britain - but only if England are involved in the showpiece match. It would be the first time since 2005 that a major England men's home match had emerged from behind a UK television paywall, with cricket having a chance to reconnect with a 'lost' audience in its birthplace. Australia, however, have never lost any of their seven previous World Cup semi-finals - although they did tie with South Africa at Edgbaston 20 years ago before advancing into the final on superior net run-rate. They landed a psychological blow in the group stage when they beat Ashes rivals England by 64 runs at Lord's last month. Australia left-arm quicks Jason Behrendorff and Mitchell Starc shared nine wickets between them in a match where Australia captain Aaron Finch made 100 after surviving a testing opening from England's fast bowlers. Roy, however, was missing with a torn hamstring and since his return, England have scored crucial wins over India and New Zealand that took them into the semi-finals. 'Different animal' By contrast Australia, who have not won in any format at Edgbaston since the 2001 Ashes Test, suffered a surprise 10-run defeat by South Africa at Old Trafford in their final group game. England, as well as finding a way to cope with Starc, will have to contain the run-scoring threat of a powerful Australian top order. David Warner has scored 638 runs this tournament following the left-handed opener's return to international cricket after a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. But paceman Liam Plunkett insisted England could rise to the occasion. "We're a different sort of animal compared to our last teams," he said. "We've played well for the past four years, we're ranked number one.'' "We feel on our day we can beat anyone in the world," Plunkett added. The five-time world champions will pitch late call-up Peter Handscomb straight into Thursday's match after fellow batsman Usman Khawaja suffered a tournament-ending hamstring injury against South Africa. Australia coach Justin Langer led his squad on a barefoot walkabout around Edgbaston on Monday before they shared stories on the outfield in a so-called "bonding circle". "Haydos (Matthew Hayden) and I used to do it as a bit of a ritual before every Test match," former Australia opener Langer explained. "If you go back 12 months there wasn't much to be relaxed and chilled about in Australian cricket, was there? We went through a major crisis in our cricket. It didn't just affect our cricket, it affected our country,'' Langer said. "We've got to work hard on being more humble in what we do and being focused on playing good cricket," he added. But despite the coach's new-age talk, Australia's Nathan Lyon tried to put pressure on England in typically acerbic style. "It's all on them," the off-spinner said. "It's their World Cup to lose if you ask me," said Lyon.

World Cup: England face acid test in World Cup semi-final clash with Australia

World Cup: Players to watch out for in Australia vs England semi-final clash

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that his side was outplayed by the defending champions in the Match 32 of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch-led Australia became the first team in the ongoing edition of World Cup to enter the semi-finals after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australia-reach-semis-with-64-run-win-over-arch-rivals-england-230432">defeating World Cup favourites England by 64 runs</a>.&nbsp;

Although, he also added that it is not hugely disappointing and the fate is in their own hands.&nbsp;

Finch made 100 to lead his team to a competitive but not imposing total of 285 for seven and in reply to that, England were all-out on 221 in 44.4 overs.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes top-scored for England with 89 but the hosts never seriously threatened to get close to their target.&nbsp;

"A lot of today, we were outplayed," said Morgan while speaking during the post-match presentation. Now, the hosts are in serious danger of failing to reach the last four.

"Little bit unlucky as Australia played and missed a lot. They built a fantastic partnership. Wicket got a little bit better, but still challenging," he added.&nbsp;

Match in numbers:&nbsp;
<img alt="Match 32" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc9ec5bc-78c3-4449-a44b-7bf764107c5a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2032_0.jpg" />
"Choosing to bat would've been a horrific decision. Finch played really well, capitalized on the start he got," Morgan defended his decision of opting to bowl first.&nbsp;

"Given the circumstances, it's not hugely disappointing. Our fate is in our own hands. Everything we need to turn around is simple. Won't search for anything that's not there," said Morgan.&nbsp;

Australia's sixth win in seven games took the defending champions into the semi-finals while England have now lost three matches and may need to beat India and New Zealand to make the last four.

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that his side was outplayed by the defending champions in the Match 32 of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Tuesday. Aaron Finch-led Australia became the first team in the ongoing edition of World Cup to enter the semi-finals after defeating World Cup favourites England by 64 runs.

England skipper Eoin Morgan said that his side was outplayed by the defending champions in the Match 32 of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Tuesday. Aaron Finch-led Australia became the first team in the ongoing edition of World Cup to enter the semi-finals after defeating World Cup favourites England by 64 runs. Although, he also added that it is not hugely disappointing and the fate is in their own hands. Finch made 100 to lead his team to a competitive but not imposing total of 285 for seven and in reply to that, England were all-out on 221 in 44.4 overs. Ben Stokes top-scored for England with 89 but the hosts never seriously threatened to get close to their target. "A lot of today, we were outplayed," said Morgan while speaking during the post-match presentation. Now, the hosts are in serious danger of failing to reach the last four. "Little bit unlucky as Australia played and missed a lot. They built a fantastic partnership. Wicket got a little bit better, but still challenging," he added. Match in numbers: "Choosing to bat would've been a horrific decision. Finch played really well, capitalized on the start he got," Morgan defended his decision of opting to bowl first. "Given the circumstances, it's not hugely disappointing. Our fate is in our own hands. Everything we need to turn around is simple. Won't search for anything that's not there," said Morgan. Australia's sixth win in seven games took the defending champions into the semi-finals while England have now lost three matches and may need to beat India and New Zealand to make the last four.

'It's not hugely disappointing, fate is in our own hands,' says Eoin Morgan after losing to Australia

Australia <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-32-england-vs-australia-230276">confirmed their place in the semi-finals</a> of the Cricket World Cup on Tuesday with a comprehensive 64-run victory against England.

Australian skipper Aaron Finch made exactly 100 in a total of 285-7 before England slumped to 221 all out with 32 balls left.

The recalled Behrendorff took 5-44 -- his first five-wicket haul in a one-day international -- while Starc became the leading bowler at the tournament with 19 scalps thanks to a haul of 4-43.

For England, who entered the showpiece event as the top-ranked side in ODI cricket, this was a second straight defeat after their shock 20-run loss to Sri Lanka.

The host nation, bidding to win a first World Cup title, can still qualify for the semi-finals but they are likely to need to beat at least one of India and New Zealand in their remaining two group games.

"There are teams that you have confidence playing against but I have had plenty of low scores against England as well," said man-of-the-match Finch.

"It was nipping around first thing. We were as tight as we could be and then took advantage of any width."

Match in number:
<img alt="Match 32" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c0ef42c-b04d-483c-889c-236be8d6de3b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2032.jpg" />
England's reply saw them lose a wicket off just the second ball of their chase, with the struggling James Vince -- only playing because Jason Roy was out with a hamstring injury -- bowled by a Behrendorff inswinger.

Starc then took two wickets in nine balls.

Test skipper Joe Root was plumb lbw to an inswinger for eight before England captain Eoin Morgan (four) fell into a hooking trap when a top-edge was held safely by Pat Cummins at fine leg.

Australia, who had lost 10 of their previous 11 ODIS against England, were in complete charge with the hosts now 26-3.

England have surged to the top of the ODI rankings on the back of aggressive run-scoring but the worry for Morgan's men is that too many of their top-order appear to know only one way to bat.

Careless England

Jonny Bairstow, for example, fell next to a careless hook off Behrendorff before Stokes and Jos Buttler (25) repaired some of the damage with a fifth-wicket stand of 71.

Buttler was well caught by Usman Khawaja, running round and staying just inside the deep square leg boundary off Marcus Stoinis.

Stokes defiantly hit Glenn Maxwell for two sixes in three balls but, shortly before completing his fifty, the all-rounder pulled up with a calf injury.

Starc was brought back to take a key wicket and duly obliged with a thunderbolt yorker, his 18th wicket of the tournament, that ended Stokes's 115-ball innings of 89, including eight fours and two sixes.&nbsp;

Stokes's dismissal left England 177-6 in the 37th over and effectively ended the contest. Starc ended the match when he dismissed Adil Rashid.

Here's the points table:

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Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan fans, how does this table look?!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/LOOWRAGXHH">pic.twitter.com/LOOWRAGXHH</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1143568289144233984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier Finch, dropped on 15, and fellow opener David Warner (53) came through some testing early overs to share a stand of 123 as too many of England's pacemen, with the exception of Chris Woakes, dropped short. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The skipper's exit sparked a late flurry of wickets but Australia had enough runs on the board.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC15?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC15</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 v 🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AaronFinch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AaronFinch</a> 💯 
Mitchell Starc four-for 
🇦🇺 win<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 v 🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AaronFinch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AaronFinch</a> 💯 
Mitchell Starc four-for 
🇦🇺 win <a href="https://t.co/q9kUmo8k3q">pic.twitter.com/q9kUmo8k3q</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1143573290562314240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both Warner, the World Cup's leading run-scorer, and Steve Smith were booed as they entered and exited the field following their recent return from year-long bans for ball-tampering.&nbsp;

Finch went to his century thanks to a misfield by Woakes but next ball he miscued a hook off Jofra Archer and Woakes held the catch at fine leg.&nbsp;

The skipper faced 116 balls, with 11 fours and two sixes in his second century of this World Cup following his 153 against Sri Lanka.

Australia confirmed their place in the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup on Tuesday with a comprehensive 64-run victory against England. Australian skipper Aaron Finch made exactly 100 in a total of 285-7 before England slumped to 221 all out with 32 balls left.

Australia confirmed their place in the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup on Tuesday with a comprehensive 64-run victory against England. Australian skipper Aaron Finch made exactly 100 in a total of 285-7 before England slumped to 221 all out with 32 balls left. The recalled Behrendorff took 5-44 -- his first five-wicket haul in a one-day international -- while Starc became the leading bowler at the tournament with 19 scalps thanks to a haul of 4-43. For England, who entered the showpiece event as the top-ranked side in ODI cricket, this was a second straight defeat after their shock 20-run loss to Sri Lanka. The host nation, bidding to win a first World Cup title, can still qualify for the semi-finals but they are likely to need to beat at least one of India and New Zealand in their remaining two group games. "There are teams that you have confidence playing against but I have had plenty of low scores against England as well," said man-of-the-match Finch. "It was nipping around first thing. We were as tight as we could be and then took advantage of any width." Match in number: England's reply saw them lose a wicket off just the second ball of their chase, with the struggling James Vince -- only playing because Jason Roy was out with a hamstring injury -- bowled by a Behrendorff inswinger. Starc then took two wickets in nine balls. Test skipper Joe Root was plumb lbw to an inswinger for eight before England captain Eoin Morgan (four) fell into a hooking trap when a top-edge was held safely by Pat Cummins at fine leg. Australia, who had lost 10 of their previous 11 ODIS against England, were in complete charge with the hosts now 26-3. England have surged to the top of the ODI rankings on the back of aggressive run-scoring but the worry for Morgan's men is that too many of their top-order appear to know only one way to bat. Careless England Jonny Bairstow, for example, fell next to a careless hook off Behrendorff before Stokes and Jos Buttler (25) repaired some of the damage with a fifth-wicket stand of 71. Buttler was well caught by Usman Khawaja, running round and staying just inside the deep square leg boundary off Marcus Stoinis. Stokes defiantly hit Glenn Maxwell for two sixes in three balls but, shortly before completing his fifty, the all-rounder pulled up with a calf injury. Starc was brought back to take a key wicket and duly obliged with a thunderbolt yorker, his 18th wicket of the tournament, that ended Stokes's 115-ball innings of 89, including eight fours and two sixes. Stokes's dismissal left England 177-6 in the 37th over and effectively ended the contest. Starc ended the match when he dismissed Adil Rashid. Here's the points table: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan fans, how does this table look?!#CWC19 pic.twitter.com/LOOWRAGXHH — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 25, 2019 × Earlier Finch, dropped on 15, and fellow opener David Warner (53) came through some testing early overs to share a stand of 123 as too many of England's pacemen, with the exception of Chris Woakes, dropped short. The skipper's exit sparked a late flurry of wickets but Australia had enough runs on the board. #CWC15 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 v 🇦🇺 #AaronFinch 💯 Mitchell Starc four-for 🇦🇺 win#CWC19 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 v 🇦🇺 #AaronFinch 💯 Mitchell Starc four-for 🇦🇺 win pic.twitter.com/q9kUmo8k3q — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 25, 2019 × Both Warner, the World Cup's leading run-scorer, and Steve Smith were booed as they entered and exited the field following their recent return from year-long bans for ball-tampering. Finch went to his century thanks to a misfield by Woakes but next ball he miscued a hook off Jofra Archer and Woakes held the catch at fine leg. The skipper faced 116 balls, with 11 fours and two sixes in his second century of this World Cup following his 153 against Sri Lanka.

World Cup: Australia reach semis with 64-run win over arch-rivals England

A Tendulkar helped England ahead of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-scenario-pakistan-stay-alive-england-vs-australia-at-lords-key-to-shaping-top-four-230038">World Cup clash against Australia</a> -- not the man who owns almost all the batting records but the boy who aspires to shine with the ball.

Aiming to live up to his illustrious surname, Arjun Tendulkar ran in fast and bowled at the England batsmen on the eve of their big-ticket clash against arch-rivals Australia.

The son of batting legend Sachin Tendulkar Monday marked his run-up at the Lord's nets during England's practice session, drawing, on expected lines, the attention of those present at the mecca of cricket.

Sporting an orange t-shirt, Arjun could be seen bowling to England batsmen under the watchful eyes of the team's spin bowling consultant, Saqlain Mushtaq.

This is not the first time that Arjun has bowled in the nets for England. In 2015, as a 15-year-old, he was part of the group of net bowlers which helped England prepare for the second Ashes Test against Australia.

Watch the video:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CCWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CCWorldCup</a> 2019 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> 
 
The 'Tendulkar' help for <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@englandcricket</a> as they prepare to take on <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketAus</a> at Lord's<a href="https://t.co/RLqLfolVWs">pic.twitter.com/RLqLfolVWs</a> 
 
FULL STORY HERE: <a href="https://t.co/HmG5XGsbuk">https://t.co/HmG5XGsbuk</a>
— CricketCountry (@cricket_country) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricket_country/status/1143416322648264704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Arjun, 19, has played for MCC Young Cricketers against Surrey Second XI, picking up two wickets in High Wycombe last week.

Bowling from over the wicket, he produced a beauty of a delivery to castle opener Nathan Tilley in just his second over.&nbsp;

After disturbing Tilley's stumps, Arjun dismissed lower-order batsman BBA Geddes, returning figures of 11-2-50-2.

He has represented India under-19 team against Sri Lanka in a youth Test last year. Last month, Arjun had participated in Mumbai T20 League, playing for Aakash Tigers.

The strapping youngster had taken 19 wickets in just five games for Mumbai Under-19 in the 2017-18 Cooch Behar Trophy.

Along with India, hosts England and defending champions Australia are among the favourites to win the ongoing edition of the showpiece.

A Tendulkar helped England ahead of their World Cup clash against Australia -- not the man who owns almost all the batting records but the boy who aspires to shine with the ball.

A Tendulkar helped England ahead of their World Cup clash against Australia -- not the man who owns almost all the batting records but the boy who aspires to shine with the ball. Aiming to live up to his illustrious surname, Arjun Tendulkar ran in fast and bowled at the England batsmen on the eve of their big-ticket clash against arch-rivals Australia. The son of batting legend Sachin Tendulkar Monday marked his run-up at the Lord's nets during England's practice session, drawing, on expected lines, the attention of those present at the mecca of cricket. Sporting an orange t-shirt, Arjun could be seen bowling to England batsmen under the watchful eyes of the team's spin bowling consultant, Saqlain Mushtaq. This is not the first time that Arjun has bowled in the nets for England. In 2015, as a 15-year-old, he was part of the group of net bowlers which helped England prepare for the second Ashes Test against Australia. Watch the video: #CCWorldCup 2019 #CWC19 #ENGvAUS #AUSvENG The 'Tendulkar' help for @englandcricket as they prepare to take on @CricketAus at Lord'spic.twitter.com/RLqLfolVWs FULL STORY HERE: https://t.co/HmG5XGsbuk — CricketCountry (@cricket_country) June 25, 2019 × Arjun, 19, has played for MCC Young Cricketers against Surrey Second XI, picking up two wickets in High Wycombe last week. Bowling from over the wicket, he produced a beauty of a delivery to castle opener Nathan Tilley in just his second over. After disturbing Tilley's stumps, Arjun dismissed lower-order batsman BBA Geddes, returning figures of 11-2-50-2. He has represented India under-19 team against Sri Lanka in a youth Test last year. Last month, Arjun had participated in Mumbai T20 League, playing for Aakash Tigers. The strapping youngster had taken 19 wickets in just five games for Mumbai Under-19 in the 2017-18 Cooch Behar Trophy. Along with India, hosts England and defending champions Australia are among the favourites to win the ongoing edition of the showpiece.

Watch: Tendulkar helps England prepare for World Cup clash against Australia

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday.

Warner and Smith have found themselves booed by some fans in England after returning to international cricket following year-long bans for ball-tampering.

Australia coach Justin Langer has called for the taunts to stop, with India captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed telling their supporters to lay off the duo.

But, although the Australia clash is being played at Lord's -- the 'home of cricket' where crowds are traditionally polite -- Morgan refused to issue a plea to respect Warner and Smith.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-scenario-pakistan-stay-alive-england-vs-australia-at-lords-key-to-shaping-top-four-230038">England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four</a>

"I'm not expecting anything. I think fans and supporters up and down the country will have different reactions, as they will around the world. So we'll see," Morgan told reporters at Lord's on Monday.

"Supporters pay a lot of money, they do. And sport is beautiful in many ways, because it attracts people from far and wide.

"And you often see crowds offering support to both sets of players in the grounds."

'Acceptance will take time'

Morgan added: "You don't know how sports fans will react.

"Just because two guys have been punished, served their punishment and returned to play, it doesn't mean they will be accepted back into the cricket community straight away. It will take time."

England batsman Jonny Bairstow accused Australia of double standards in asking fans to go easy on Warner and Smith because former coach Darren Lehmann had previously urged supporters to verbally abuse England quick Stuart Broad during an Ashes series 'Down Under'.&nbsp;

Asked for his opinion of Bairstow's comments, Morgan said: "I don't have a view on it. I think every instance is different, every team is different.

"I believe that was a long time ago under a different regime. I don't know."

Australia captain Aaron Finch said he was resigned to the taunts continuing but claimed they had not hurt Warner and Smith in any case.

"Whether someone comes out and says do or don't, it's going to happen regardless anyway," said Finch at his pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"It hasn't affected our boys one bit. I can honestly say that. If anything it's given them a bit more motivation.&nbsp;

"As a player you don't tend to hear a hell of a lot of stuff from the fans.

"I'm sure that's the last thing from Steve or Davie's mind when they walk out to bat, if a handful of people or a whole stadium are booing."&nbsp;

Defeats by Sri Lanka and Pakistan mean England could need to win two of their three remaining group matches against Australia, India and New Zealand to reach the semi-finals.

But Morgan tried to play down the significance of the latest clash with their old enemies by saying: "It's not must-win yet. We don't need to win every game to get to the semi-final."

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday.

England captain Eoin Morgan insists it is not his job to tell supporters how to react to shamed Australia stars David Warner and Steve Smith when the arch-rivals meet in a crucial World Cup clash on Tuesday. Warner and Smith have found themselves booed by some fans in England after returning to international cricket following year-long bans for ball-tampering. Australia coach Justin Langer has called for the taunts to stop, with India captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed telling their supporters to lay off the duo. But, although the Australia clash is being played at Lord's -- the 'home of cricket' where crowds are traditionally polite -- Morgan refused to issue a plea to respect Warner and Smith. Also Read: England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four "I'm not expecting anything. I think fans and supporters up and down the country will have different reactions, as they will around the world. So we'll see," Morgan told reporters at Lord's on Monday. "Supporters pay a lot of money, they do. And sport is beautiful in many ways, because it attracts people from far and wide. "And you often see crowds offering support to both sets of players in the grounds." 'Acceptance will take time' Morgan added: "You don't know how sports fans will react. "Just because two guys have been punished, served their punishment and returned to play, it doesn't mean they will be accepted back into the cricket community straight away. It will take time." England batsman Jonny Bairstow accused Australia of double standards in asking fans to go easy on Warner and Smith because former coach Darren Lehmann had previously urged supporters to verbally abuse England quick Stuart Broad during an Ashes series 'Down Under'. Asked for his opinion of Bairstow's comments, Morgan said: "I don't have a view on it. I think every instance is different, every team is different. "I believe that was a long time ago under a different regime. I don't know." Australia captain Aaron Finch said he was resigned to the taunts continuing but claimed they had not hurt Warner and Smith in any case. "Whether someone comes out and says do or don't, it's going to happen regardless anyway," said Finch at his pre-match press conference. "It hasn't affected our boys one bit. I can honestly say that. If anything it's given them a bit more motivation. "As a player you don't tend to hear a hell of a lot of stuff from the fans. "I'm sure that's the last thing from Steve or Davie's mind when they walk out to bat, if a handful of people or a whole stadium are booing." Defeats by Sri Lanka and Pakistan mean England could need to win two of their three remaining group matches against Australia, India and New Zealand to reach the semi-finals. But Morgan tried to play down the significance of the latest clash with their old enemies by saying: "It's not must-win yet. We don't need to win every game to get to the semi-final."

'Acceptance will take time': Eoin Morgan refuses to issue plea to respect Warner and Smith

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India.

The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992.

What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider.

Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston.

Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals.

As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India.

India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl.

Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way.

One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break.

Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams.

As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd.

West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games.

Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament.

The World Cup is alive. Well, three of the top four look safe, but a few wins here and there and we may get a surprise fourth entrant. And hey, now that the rain has held off and we’ve had a several thrillers in the span of a few days, its actually turned out to be a pretty fun tournament. Hosts and top-ranked England, touted as favourites well before the World Cup began, have been beaten by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the latter the upset of the tournament. Eoin Morgan‘s team now needs to win two of its remaining three matches to guarantee their place in the semi-finals. Their opponents? Australia, New Zealand and India. The three teams that with them comprise the World Cup’s top four. New Zealand, who they last beat in a World Cup match back in 1992. What works in England’s favour is that nobody else can win six matches in a row, so this keeps the home team in the green zone. They also have a good net run-rate (1.457). So, even one win out of three could be enough. On Tuesday, Eoin Morgan’s team plays defending champions Australia. A win for England here will be a big boost. A loss will throw the points table open wider. Australia, second on the World Cup points table, also have a couple tough matches to play. England won’t be easy, New Zealand always punch above their weight and South Africa, their World Cup over, could be the banana peel. By the time Australia meet New Zealand at Lord’s on June 29, the Blackcaps may already have secured passage to the semi-finals if they beat Pakistan three days earlier at Edgbaston. Kane Williamson‘s team, having just managed to beat West Indies at Old Trafford on Saturday, now need to win one of their remaining three matches – versus Pakistan, Australia and England – to make the semi-finals. As they showed in tough chases against Bangladesh and South Africa, New Zealand have the stomach for a scrap. Ross Taylor did it against Bangladesh when the target was 245, Williamson stood up brilliantly to haul them to a last-over win when chasing 241 versus South Africa and against West Indies, both of them combined to put up a match-winning total, but just. For sheer drama, these three wins are right up there. New Zealand have escaped defeat thrice, so don’t expect them to buckle against England or India. India, along with New Zealand the only team to not lose yet, squeezed past Afghanistan in Southampton. West Indies, Bangladesh, England and Sri Lanka remain. Virat Kohli‘s Indian cricket team must win twice to make it to the semis. Despite the loss of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least two matches – he is targeting the England game on June 30 – India have a very fine bowling attack and should make it comfortably. Questions hang over their middle order, which was exposed by Afghanistan’s spinners at The Rose Bowl. Sri Lanka’s win over England has kept them in the hunt for the semi-finals. On six points, they have to win all three remaining fixtures – versus South Africa, West Indies and India – to get to 12. Two wins will give them 10 points, which may not be enough owing to the top four’s dominance. Other results will have to go their way. One spot below Sri Lanka are Bangladesh, with five points. Today they play Afghanistan, who beat them at last year’s Asia Cup, India and Pakistan. If they beat Afghanistan in Southampton, Bangladesh will move to seven points. Getting past India will be tough, which means that their clash with Pakistan at Lord’s on July 5 could be make-or-break. Pakistan, after beating South Africa by 49 runs at Lord’s, have five points. They still need to beat New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to finish on 11. For a team that oscillates from the awesome to the absurd, it is a nearly impossible task. But Mickey Arthur, their coach, believes it is possible, with a little help from other teams. As things look today, Pakistan are competing with one of Australia and England for a spot in the final four. It may not require net run-rate, because England and Australia have even points to Pakistan’s odd. West Indies, with just three points and games versus India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to go, cannot make the semi-finals. South Africa and Afghanistan are eliminated. Each could do damage to others, provided they really lift their games. Did anyone say this is a dull World Cup?

Cricket World Cup semi-final scenario: Pakistan stay alive, England vs Australia at Lord's key to shaping top four

Two-time defending champions Australia scored three goals in the fourth and final quarter to beat England by a comfortable 3-0 margin and register their second consecutive win in Pool B at the men's hockey World Cup on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The win took Australia to the top of Pool B with six points from two games and virtually secured their place in the quarterfinals of the 16-team event.&nbsp; The Kookaburras had earlier defeated Ireland 2-1 in their tournament opener.&nbsp;

For England, the loss was a major setback after the 2-2 draw against debutants China in the opening game.&nbsp;

England got their first penalty corner a minute away from halftime but wasted the chance as both the teams failed to break the deadlock in the opening two quarters.&nbsp;

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MOTM Matthew Swann says the <a href="https://twitter.com/Kookaburras?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kookaburras</a> have made their path to the Quarter Finals a lot easier, but the team cannot afford to get complacent at a high-profile tournament like the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://t.co/YWEQNtAZz5">pic.twitter.com/YWEQNtAZz5</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1069958620312268800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Australia will play China in their last pool match on December 7, while England will be up against neighbours Ireland.&nbsp;

Two-time defending champions Australia scored three goals in the fourth and final quarter to beat England by a comfortable 3-0 margin and register their second consecutive win in Pool B at the men's hockey World Cup on Tuesday.

Two-time defending champions Australia scored three goals in the fourth and final quarter to beat England by a comfortable 3-0 margin and register their second consecutive win in Pool B at the men's hockey World Cup on Tuesday. The win took Australia to the top of Pool B with six points from two games and virtually secured their place in the quarterfinals of the 16-team event. The Kookaburras had earlier defeated Ireland 2-1 in their tournament opener. For England, the loss was a major setback after the 2-2 draw against debutants China in the opening game. England got their first penalty corner a minute away from halftime but wasted the chance as both the teams failed to break the deadlock in the opening two quarters. MOTM Matthew Swann says the @kookaburras have made their path to the Quarter Finals a lot easier, but the team cannot afford to get complacent at a high-profile tournament like the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.#IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey pic.twitter.com/YWEQNtAZz5 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 4, 2018 × Australia will play China in their last pool match on December 7, while England will be up against neighbours Ireland.

Hockey World cup 2018: Australia score three late goals to beat England

In the first One Day International, England beat Australia by 5 wickets.&nbsp;A record innings for England, as it is the first ever chase of the 300-plus total by any side at Melbourne Cricket Club ground.

Opener Jason Roy recorded the highest-ever one-day international score by an England player as the tourists finally had something to celebrate with a five-wicket win over Australia on Sunday.

After their wretched Ashes campaign, in which they were beaten 4-0, the tourists chased down a hefty Australian total at the Melbourne Cricket Ground&nbsp;to win with seven balls to spare in the opener of the five-match ODI series.

Set 305 to win, Roy&#39;s daring 180 helped England make 308 for five.

The successful chase was also a record for a one-day international at the MCG, eclipsing Australia&#39;s 297 for four against England in 2011, and vindicated captain Eoin Morgan&#39;s decision to bowl first.

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Sum up that <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonRoy20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JasonRoy20</a> innings in one word? 
 
Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/N5EeoUHDzR">https://t.co/N5EeoUHDzR</a> <a href="https://t.co/QLUY2ZLGZ1">pic.twitter.com/QLUY2ZLGZ1</a>
&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/952501917661396993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Having been an onlooker for the Test series, Roy was an unlikely hero. But he rode his luck to produce a record in limited-overs cricket for England and also a new benchmark for a batsman at the MCG in a one-day international.

The swashbuckling right-hander lived dangerously throughout his innings, charging along at better than a run a ball and reaching his half-century off only 32 balls.

He survived a run-out scare and an lbw decision which was overturned upon review and lofted several balls just out of the reach of frustrated Australian fielders on the way to his fifth ODI century.

Roy was just five when Mitchell Starc could have run him out with a direct hit. He duly punished the Australian fast bowler by taking 14 off his next over as the tourists raced past 50 in the fifth over.

He was seemingly trapped lbw by 91 by spinner Adam Zampa on 91, but a review showed the ball hit him outside the line of off stump and the decision was overturned.

Roy wasted little time making the most of that piece of fortune, driving the next ball just over a leaping Aaron Finch on the long-on boundary for six.

He reached his hundred just moments later from 92 balls, with nine fours and three sixes.

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England batsman Jason Roy acknowledges the applause after being dismissed by Australia&#39;s for 180. (AFP)
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Fittingly, the 27-year-old passed team-mate Alex Hales&#39;s England record knock of 171 against Pakistan in 2016 with a chip just over the head of a despairing Australian fielder.

He finally fell to Starc after skying one into the outfield, having faced 151 balls -- hitting 16 fours and five sixes.

Roy was still coming to terms with his achievement after the match.

&quot;Incredibly special, I don&#39;t have too many words right now,&quot; he said. &quot;Halesy was pretty disappointed.&quot;

Australian captain Steve Smith praised Roy for his bold knock.

&quot;He didn&#39;t give us a chance, and he changed his arm,&quot; Smith said. &quot;They got off to an absolute flyer and we couldn&#39;t pull them back.&quot;

Roy had a willing partner in Test captain Joe Root, who had been tormented all tour by the Australians and was in no mood to let a rare victory slip.

Root made an unbeaten 91 and he and Roy put on 221 -- an English ODI record -- for the third wicket.

Aaron Finch&#39;s ninth one-day international century was the cornerstone of the Australian total of 304 for eight.

Finch&#39;s 107 was backed by half-centuries for Mitchell Marsh (50) and Marcus Stoinis (60) as Australia recovered from a shaky start in which the tourists finally managed to get bogeyman Steve Smith cheaply.

Fresh from scoring three centuries as Australia won the Ashes 4-0, Smith looked in commanding touch again as he scored at better than a run a ball, but was caught behind off spinner Adil Rashid for just 23.

Scoreboard:

Australia:&nbsp;Total 304/8

A. Finch 107, D. Warner&nbsp; 2, S. Smith&nbsp; 23, T. Head 5, M. Marsh&nbsp; 50, M. Stoinis 60, T. Paine&nbsp; 27, P. Cummins&nbsp; 12, M. Starc&nbsp; 0, A. Tye 4

Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Warner), 2-58 (Smith), 3-78 (Head), 4-196 (Finch), 5-205 (Marsh), 6-285 (Stoinis), 7-296 (Paine), 8-300 (Cummins)

&nbsp;

England:&nbsp;Total 308/5

J. Roy 180, J. Bairstow 14, D. Hales 4, J. Root 91, E. Morgan 1, J. Buttler 4, M. Ali 5

Fall of wickets: 1-53 (Bairstow), 2-60 (Hales), 3-281 (Roy), 4-288 (Morgan), 5-302 (Buttler)

Man of the match: J. Roy (ENG)

&nbsp;

Roy was awarded man of the match for his splendid performance

In the first One Day International, England beat Australia by 5 wickets. A record innings for England, as it is the first ever chase of the 300-plus total by any side at Melbourne Cricket Club ground. Opener Jason Roy recorded the highest-ever one-day international score by an England player as the tourists finally had something to celebrate with a five-wicket win over Australia on Sunday. After their wretched Ashes campaign, in which they were beaten 4-0, the tourists chased down a hefty Australian total at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to win with seven balls to spare in the opener of the five-match ODI series. Set 305 to win, Roy's daring 180 helped England make 308 for five. The successful chase was also a record for a one-day international at the MCG, eclipsing Australia's 297 for four against England in 2011, and vindicated captain Eoin Morgan's decision to bowl first. Sum up that @JasonRoy20 innings in one word? Scorecard: https://t.co/N5EeoUHDzR pic.twitter.com/QLUY2ZLGZ1 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 14, 2018 × Having been an onlooker for the Test series, Roy was an unlikely hero. But he rode his luck to produce a record in limited-overs cricket for England and also a new benchmark for a batsman at the MCG in a one-day international. The swashbuckling right-hander lived dangerously throughout his innings, charging along at better than a run a ball and reaching his half-century off only 32 balls. He survived a run-out scare and an lbw decision which was overturned upon review and lofted several balls just out of the reach of frustrated Australian fielders on the way to his fifth ODI century. Roy was just five when Mitchell Starc could have run him out with a direct hit. He duly punished the Australian fast bowler by taking 14 off his next over as the tourists raced past 50 in the fifth over. He was seemingly trapped lbw by 91 by spinner Adam Zampa on 91, but a review showed the ball hit him outside the line of off stump and the decision was overturned. Roy wasted little time making the most of that piece of fortune, driving the next ball just over a leaping Aaron Finch on the long-on boundary for six. He reached his hundred just moments later from 92 balls, with nine fours and three sixes. England batsman Jason Roy acknowledges the applause after being dismissed by Australia's for 180. (AFP) × Fittingly, the 27-year-old passed team-mate Alex Hales's England record knock of 171 against Pakistan in 2016 with a chip just over the head of a despairing Australian fielder. He finally fell to Starc after skying one into the outfield, having faced 151 balls -- hitting 16 fours and five sixes. Roy was still coming to terms with his achievement after the match. "Incredibly special, I don't have too many words right now," he said. "Halesy was pretty disappointed." Australian captain Steve Smith praised Roy for his bold knock. "He didn't give us a chance, and he changed his arm," Smith said. "They got off to an absolute flyer and we couldn't pull them back." Roy had a willing partner in Test captain Joe Root, who had been tormented all tour by the Australians and was in no mood to let a rare victory slip. Root made an unbeaten 91 and he and Roy put on 221 -- an English ODI record -- for the third wicket. Aaron Finch's ninth one-day international century was the cornerstone of the Australian total of 304 for eight. Finch's 107 was backed by half-centuries for Mitchell Marsh (50) and Marcus Stoinis (60) as Australia recovered from a shaky start in which the tourists finally managed to get bogeyman Steve Smith cheaply. Fresh from scoring three centuries as Australia won the Ashes 4-0, Smith looked in commanding touch again as he scored at better than a run a ball, but was caught behind off spinner Adil Rashid for just 23. Scoreboard: Australia: Total 304/8 A. Finch 107, D. Warner 2, S. Smith 23, T. Head 5, M. Marsh 50, M. Stoinis 60, T. Paine 27, P. Cummins 12, M. Starc 0, A. Tye 4 Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Warner), 2-58 (Smith), 3-78 (Head), 4-196 (Finch), 5-205 (Marsh), 6-285 (Stoinis), 7-296 (Paine), 8-300 (Cummins) England: Total 308/5 J. Roy 180, J. Bairstow 14, D. Hales 4, J. Root 91, E. Morgan 1, J. Buttler 4, M. Ali 5 Fall of wickets: 1-53 (Bairstow), 2-60 (Hales), 3-281 (Roy), 4-288 (Morgan), 5-302 (Buttler) Man of the match: J. Roy (ENG)

Jason Roy's century galvanize England to victory against Australia

The first one-day international match between England and Australia is underway at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia scored 304 at the loss of&nbsp;8 wickets in 50 overs after&nbsp;England won the toss and chose to bowl.

Australian opener Aaron Finch slammed another century (107), helping his team set such a mammoth target. However, David Warner lost his wicket in the second over itself, which&nbsp;was a big blow to Australians.

Mitchell Marsh (50), Marcus Stoinis (60) and Tim Paine (27) contributed well with their bats for the team.

Aaron Finch found a determined ally in Mitchel Marsh and together they contributed 118 runs for the team.

England Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each. Rashid&nbsp;dismissed skipper Steve Smith&nbsp;at 23.

England&#39;s bowlers got wickets but failed to&nbsp;slow down opponent&#39;s&nbsp;run rate.

Fall of wickets:

1-10 (David Warner, 1.5&nbsp;over),&nbsp;2-58 (Steve Smith, 10.5&nbsp;over), 3-78 (Travis Head, 13.6 over), 4-196 (Aaron Finch, 35.2&nbsp;over), 5-205 (Mitchell&nbsp;&nbsp;Marsh, 37.2&nbsp;over), 6-285 (Marcus Stoinis, 47.1&nbsp;over), 7-296 (Tim Paine, 49.2&nbsp;over), 8-300 (Pat Cummins, 49.5&nbsp;over).

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107 from <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronFinch5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AaronFinch5</a> and 60 from Marcus Stoinis have helped Australia post 304/8 in the 1st ODI. Will England chase them down, or do Australia have enough? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> 
 
Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR">https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR</a> <a href="https://t.co/FV2fsu9WUy">pic.twitter.com/FV2fsu9WUy</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/952436711157583873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Australia completed a massive 4-0 win in the Ashes Test series. The five one-day match series is a chance for the English to salvage some cricket pride.

England captain Joe Root handed over the leadership duties to Eoin Morgan and play with two spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid along with pacers Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Liam Plunkett.

On&nbsp;the other hand, fast bowler Andrew Tye debuts for Australia.

Teams:

Australia - David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, Tim Paine, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye.

England - Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (capt), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood.

Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each

The first one-day international match between England and Australia is underway at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia scored 304 at the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs after England won the toss and chose to bowl. Australian opener Aaron Finch slammed another century (107), helping his team set such a mammoth target. However, David Warner lost his wicket in the second over itself, which was a big blow to Australians. Mitchell Marsh (50), Marcus Stoinis (60) and Tim Paine (27) contributed well with their bats for the team. Aaron Finch found a determined ally in Mitchel Marsh and together they contributed 118 runs for the team. England Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each. Rashid dismissed skipper Steve Smith at 23. England's bowlers got wickets but failed to slow down opponent's run rate. Fall of wickets: 1-10 (David Warner, 1.5 over), 2-58 (Steve Smith, 10.5 over), 3-78 (Travis Head, 13.6 over), 4-196 (Aaron Finch, 35.2 over), 5-205 (Mitchell Marsh, 37.2 over), 6-285 (Marcus Stoinis, 47.1 over), 7-296 (Tim Paine, 49.2 over), 8-300 (Pat Cummins, 49.5 over). 107 from @AaronFinch5 and 60 from Marcus Stoinis have helped Australia post 304/8 in the 1st ODI. Will England chase them down, or do Australia have enough? #AUSvENG Scorecard: https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR pic.twitter.com/FV2fsu9WUy — ICC (@ICC) January 14, 2018 × Recently, Australia completed a massive 4-0 win in the Ashes Test series. The five one-day match series is a chance for the English to salvage some cricket pride. England captain Joe Root handed over the leadership duties to Eoin Morgan and play with two spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid along with pacers Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Liam Plunkett. On the other hand, fast bowler Andrew Tye debuts for Australia. Teams: Australia - David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, Tim Paine, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye. England - Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (capt), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood.

1st ODI: Aaron Finch's ton help Australia set target of 305 for England

England&#39;s maligned tail piled on runs before the tourists were bowled out for 346 in their first innings at lunch on the second day of the final Ashes Test here today.

Newcomer Tom Curran smacked 39 off 65 balls and Stuart Broad clubbed two sixes in his 31 off 32 balls as England lashed out late in the extended morning session.

Steve Smith pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Dawid Malan for 62, but the Australians were guilty of two embarrassing dropped catches to give England a helping hand. 
The Australian skipper made an athletic diving catch to end the dangerous batsman&#39;s innings inside the opening half- hour&#39;s play. 
Smith, who had dropped his previous three chances over the last two Tests, flung out his left-hand at second slip to make the catch off Mitchell Starc.

Malan, who was dropped by Smith at slip on Thursday&#39;s opening day on 34, was not so fortunate this time to end his four-hour stay off 180 balls.

Malan, who hit a century in the third Perth Test, has scored 378 runs at 47.25 in the series, second only to Alastair Cook for England. 
It was another outstanding catch by Australia in the innings following Mitchell Marsh&#39;s flying effort to dismiss Joe Root for 83 yesterday.

But Australia then dropped two regulation catches in the space of four balls nearing drinks.

Pat Cummins put down Curran on 21 at mid-on off Nathan Lyon than in Cummins&#39; next over Josh Hazlewood made a dreadful hash of a skied catch at mid-on from Moeen Ali on 22.

It was the 11th dropped catch by Australia&#39;s fielders in the series, with five coming off Lyon&#39;s bowling.

But Cummins made partial amends when he had Moeen caught off his glove to a lifter for 30, giving wicketkeeper Tim Paine his fourth catch of the innings.

Broad and Curran hit out late in the session with Broad clubbing Cummins for two sixes to the delight of England&#39;s Barmy Army supporters.

He finally fell to a bat-pad catch by Cameron Bancroft for 39 off 65 balls to give Cummins his fourth wicket.

Broad went for another heave on 31, only to top-edge behind the wicket for Smith to take the catch and give spinner Lyon his only wicket.

Debutant Mason Crane was the last man out, run out for four.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

England's maligned tail piled on runs before the tourists were bowled out for 346 in their first innings at lunch on the second day of the final Ashes Test here today. Newcomer Tom Curran smacked 39 off 65 balls and Stuart Broad clubbed two sixes in his 31 off 32 balls as England lashed out late in the extended morning session. Steve Smith pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Dawid Malan for 62, but the Australians were guilty of two embarrassing dropped catches to give England a helping hand. The Australian skipper made an athletic diving catch to end the dangerous batsman's innings inside the opening half- hour's play. Smith, who had dropped his previous three chances over the last two Tests, flung out his left-hand at second slip to make the catch off Mitchell Starc. Malan, who was dropped by Smith at slip on Thursday's opening day on 34, was not so fortunate this time to end his four-hour stay off 180 balls. Malan, who hit a century in the third Perth Test, has scored 378 runs at 47.25 in the series, second only to Alastair Cook for England. It was another outstanding catch by Australia in the innings following Mitchell Marsh's flying effort to dismiss Joe Root for 83 yesterday. But Australia then dropped two regulation catches in the space of four balls nearing drinks. Pat Cummins put down Curran on 21 at mid-on off Nathan Lyon than in Cummins' next over Josh Hazlewood made a dreadful hash of a skied catch at mid-on from Moeen Ali on 22. It was the 11th dropped catch by Australia's fielders in the series, with five coming off Lyon's bowling. But Cummins made partial amends when he had Moeen caught off his glove to a lifter for 30, giving wicketkeeper Tim Paine his fourth catch of the innings. Broad and Curran hit out late in the session with Broad clubbing Cummins for two sixes to the delight of England's Barmy Army supporters. He finally fell to a bat-pad catch by Cameron Bancroft for 39 off 65 balls to give Cummins his fourth wicket. Broad went for another heave on 31, only to top-edge behind the wicket for Smith to take the catch and give spinner Lyon his only wicket. Debutant Mason Crane was the last man out, run out for four. Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Ashes 2017-18: Tail wags as England all out for 346 in Sydney Test

Prior to the Ashes series, England captain Joe Root has dismissed allegations of a &quot;drinking culture&quot; in his team.

England is set to play Australia in the upcoming Ashes series sans team vice-captain Ben Stokes, who was arrested in Bristol last month after a street brawl.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">WATCH: England Test </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank">vice-captain</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ben-stokes-englands-test-vice-captain-caught-in-a-brawl-in-manchester-20787" target="_blank"> Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar&nbsp;</a>

&quot;I don`t think there`s a drinking culture in cricket and in our side. We will address the issue as a side and make sure situations like this don`t happen again,&quot; Root was quoted by the Independent as saying.

&quot;We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour,&quot; the 26 year old added.

Root added his players would be free to go out and socialise in Australia, despite the allegations against the team.

Stokes, England&#39;s star all-rounder, has not yet been officially dropped from the Ashes squad, but Root had earlier insinuated that his team is ready to play the Ashes without him.

&quot;We`ve got to plan as if he`s not going to be there for the whole series,&quot; he had said.

Stokes still remains under investigation and is waiting to find out whether he will be charged or not.

Remarking on that, Root said, &quot;It`s an ongoing investigation. We`re very much in the dark as to what`s happening, as is everyone.&quot;

The 2017-18 Ashes will be played at five venues across Australia between November 23 and January 8.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

'We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour,' Root added

Prior to the Ashes series, England captain Joe Root has dismissed allegations of a "drinking culture" in his team. England is set to play Australia in the upcoming Ashes series sans team vice-captain Ben Stokes, who was arrested in Bristol last month after a street brawl. WATCH: England Test vice-captain Ben Stokes caught in brawl outside Manchester bar "I don`t think there`s a drinking culture in cricket and in our side. We will address the issue as a side and make sure situations like this don`t happen again," Root was quoted by the Independent as saying. "We are grown men, we know how to behave and we`ll make sure we conduct ourselves well on this tour," the 26 year old added. Root added his players would be free to go out and socialise in Australia, despite the allegations against the team. Stokes, England's star all-rounder, has not yet been officially dropped from the Ashes squad, but Root had earlier insinuated that his team is ready to play the Ashes without him. "We`ve got to plan as if he`s not going to be there for the whole series," he had said. Stokes still remains under investigation and is waiting to find out whether he will be charged or not. Remarking on that, Root said, "It`s an ongoing investigation. We`re very much in the dark as to what`s happening, as is everyone." The 2017-18 Ashes will be played at five venues across Australia between November 23 and January 8.

No 'drinking culture' in our team: England captain Joe Root