Another tense day of play closes with Australia well in command of the Test match. The openers had to go through a difficult stretch before facing Stumps with the new ball challenge under the lights. Warner and Harris came close, but the former was run out due to a terrible mix-up. England’s tired seamers were generally erratic with the lines and lengths and were unable to take advantage of the favourable circumstances.
However, just like in the second innings at The Gabba, once the partnership was broken, a collapse ensued, handing Australia the advantage. The hosts had the option of batting again, but with a young attack and a small lead, they chose to bat again. It will take a miracle for the visitors to escape with a win in this encounter. Especially considering how much the ball is already whirling and gripping.
Root and Malan rescue England again
Adelaide had a repetition of the Gabba as a century stands between Joe Root and Dawid Malan that elevated English expectations for a short time. It was a spectacular – though not entirely unexpected change of events, with Root and Malan’s exploits during a third-wicket partnership that finally yielded 138 indicating that Australia would not have it all their own way. They counter-attacked and punished the Aussies’ poor bowling. Root was caught behind after scoring 62 as Malan followed him after scoring 80.
Starc steams through England middle-order
England batting folded after Root’s dismissal, with Malan following closely behind, and then a collapse. Stokes, who had already bowled hard and was injured, gave it his all but fell short. He gave it his best, though, and went down with all guns blazing. Despite their tenacity, England was knocked for 236 following a terrifying spell of bodyline bowling from Starc and Jhye to Broad and Anderson, the latter two bowling to a new pink ball at the wrong end of the pitch. Starc was the pick of the bowlers, taking four wickets, while Lyon had three.
What day 4 holds for us
Australia will try to stamp their authority on day four and secure victory, while England will have to work hard. They’ll have to maintain their faith in miracles because it does happen. The batting team as a whole will have to put on a remarkable performance if they are to prevent Australia from doubling their lead. The hosts may decide to bat for a few sessions tomorrow before declaring, forcing England to play under lights once more.