The fifth and decisive Ashes Test hangs in a delicate balance after a sensational maiden century from England’s Jacob Bethell dramatically shifted momentum on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The 22-year-old batting prodigy delivered a flawless, unbeaten 142 to guide England to 302-8 by stumps, establishing a precarious 119-run lead.
Bethell’s heroic performance rescued England from early disaster after Mitchell Starc’s trademark first-over breakthrough dismissed Zak Crawley for just one run. The tourists’ position further deteriorated when veteran batsman Joe Root, fresh from his first-innings 160, fell cheaply for six runs to Scott Boland’s relentless attack.
Displaying remarkable composure, Bethell reached his century in style off 162 balls, emphatically celebrating with a cracking boundary through midwicket. His achievement marked not only his first Test hundred but his maiden century in red-ball cricket, surpassing his previous best of 96 against New Zealand.
The match then witnessed another dramatic twist as part-time off-spinner Beau Webster, primarily known as a seaming all-rounder, claimed three crucial wickets in quick succession. Webster removed Harry Brook for 42 and Will Jacks for a golden duck within three deliveries, finishing with impressive figures of 3-51.
England’s troubles compounded with a calamitous run-out of Jamie Smith (24) and the early departure of Ben Stokes, who managed only five balls after appearing to injure his groin while bowling earlier in the day.
The day’s events followed Australia’s commanding first-innings total of 567, built upon Travis Head’s 163 and captain Steve Smith’s 138—his 13th Ashes century, surpassing all players except the legendary Don Bradman. Webster remained unbeaten on 71 in Australia’s innings, with Josh Tongue claiming 3-97 and Brydon Carse 3-130 for England.
With Australia leading the series 3-1 and having already retained the Ashes, England seeks a morale-boosting victory following their win in the previous Melbourne Test, setting the stage for a thrilling final day’s play.