Australia has once again retained the Ashes urn with a dominant victory, beating England by 82 runs in the third Test at the Adelaide Oval. Following the win, Marnus Labuschagne expressed satisfaction in securing the series after being labeled the ‘worst Australian team in 15 years’ prior to the Ashes.
Series Lead Secured
With this victory, Australia has taken an unassailable 3-0 lead with two matches remaining in the series. This defeat extends England’s winless streak in Australia to an astonishing 18 Tests.
After clinching the win on Day 5 of the third Test, Labuschagne spoke to ABC Radio, stating, “All the media hype, we have to say it, being called the worst Australian team in 15 years, it’s nice to be sitting where we are 3 nil up.”
Weather Delays and English Resistance
After a strange 40-minute rain delay in the morning, during which it surprisingly did not rain, England appeared to have a slim chance of achieving the impossible as wicketkeeper Jamie Smith stepped up against Australia’s weakened bowling attack.
The 25-year-old struck boundaries off both Nathan Lyon and Cameron Green within the first half hour, showcasing a positive approach despite the daunting task of chasing 435 runs.
The trio of Jamie Smith (60 runs), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (39 not out) battled hard for about three hours on Day 5, but their attempt at a world record fourth-innings chase ended when they were all out for 352. An impressive catch by Labuschagne at second slip ended Jacks’ resistance, sealing the visitors’ fate.
Decisive Moments
Australia’s decision to take the new ball proved crucial as Smith mistimed a shot to wide mid-on after scoring some quick boundaries and departed for 60, sparking debate among pundits and fans alike.
Scott Boland delivered the final blow, nicking off England’s No. 11 batter, Josh Tongue, to second slip, sealing Australia’s victory midway through the session after lunch.