Emerging batsman Jacob Bethell delivered a commanding performance, remaining unbeaten on 79 runs as England reached 174-3 at tea on day four of the final Ashes Test at Sydney Cricket Ground. The tourists now trail Australia by just nine runs, with Harry Brook providing support at 24 not out. The 22-year-old Bethell is now poised to pursue his maiden Test century in the final session.
Australia had earlier been dismissed for 567 in their first innings, building a substantial lead of 183 runs thanks to impressive centuries from Travis Head (163) and captain Steve Smith (138). England’s response faced early adversity when captain Ben Stokes exited the field with a suspected groin injury while bowling during the morning session, casting doubt on his batting availability.
The English innings began shakily as Mitchell Starc claimed his 29th wicket of the series, trapping Zak Crawley lbw for just one run in the opening over. Ben Duckett contributed 42 runs before chopping on against Michael Neser, while veteran batsman Joe Root, fresh from his first-innings 160, fell cheaply for six runs to Scott Boland’s persistent bowling.
Despite these setbacks, Bethell displayed remarkable composure at the crease, reaching his fourth Test half-century with a boundary off Starc. His partnership with Brook has provided England with hope of securing a consolation victory after Australia had already retained the Ashes with a 3-1 series lead.
Earlier in the day, Australia’s innings concluded with Beau Webster remaining unbeaten on 71, while Josh Tongue (3-97) and Brydon Carse (3-130) were the most successful English bowlers.