Well, I posted an update on the test for Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 so I can't leave it be without a wrap up. As much as it pains me to say it,
In the Day 3 wrap, I made the following comment:
I still think the Aussies will win, but Root has a real chance to stand up and guide his team to an improbable win.
Stokes took the mantle as match-winner in this one. His performance certainly matches the great innings to win the "almost unwinnable" test.
Not taking anything away from Stokes, or England's win, but Australia really only have themselves to blame for losing. Even near the end, a wasted review of an obviously not out appeal cost them, as an "obviously out" appeal was declined, but they had burnt the review on nonsense. Likewise, a dropped half-chance, and badly missed run-out were all times that Australia snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.
On to the next test, and this result livens up the rest of the series. England will take some confidence with them, although some batting scars may remain. Likewise, Australia will need to regroup, losing from such a dominant position could dampen their confidence. Smith will return, could he again prove to be the difference between these two evenly matched teams?
Thanks for reading,
John.
