Jacob Bethell’s magnificent maiden first-class century provided England with a rare highlight but was not enough to halt their slide towards defeat in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.
The 22-year-old, playing his sixth Test, struck an unbeaten 142 to underline his credentials as a long-term number three, sharing key partnerships with Ben Duckett and Harry Brook.
Despite his efforts, England slumped to 302-8 in their second innings at stumps on day four, holding a slender 119-run lead.
Late wickets, Ben Stokes’ injury, and another collapse exposed England’s frailties, leaving Australia well placed to seal a 4-1 series victory on the final day.
Stumps
England vs Australia, 5th Test. The Ashes
- ENG 384 & 302/8 (75 ov)
- AUS 567
- Jacob Bethell* 142(232)
- Matthew Potts 0(10)
- Scott Boland 2/34 (19 ov)
- Day 4 – England lead by 119 runs.
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