Matters came to something of a crisis on several occasions today. A rain delay, leg-before decisions overturned or failing to happen, a dropped slips catch from Green – of all people! – an unfortunate injury to Lyon, some resolute batting from the English lower order: all of these caused spectators to grip their umbrellas rather tighter than had been anticipated. Yet at no point did Australia falter. The pitch remained true. Head reminded everyone that he is not and possibly never will be a Test quality spinner. Cummins could not break through. Yet the imperturbable Starc came roaring back with the new ball and broke the last defences. It was fitting that Boland took the final wicket. Without him Australia might have been beaten. His 18 overs for 1/35 may not sound much, but England’s tail was in full cry, looking to score at every opportunity. Yet the resolute Boland allowed no liberties.
The Ashes are done, in just eleven days. Yet England have learned from their errors of judgement. Their final score of 352 owed itself to resolute, sensible batting. Traditional virtues, like getting your eye in first and playing within your means, suddenly made batting look easier. Yet they failed in the mammoth task because nobody went on to make the big hundred that might have conjured a miracle. Jamie Smith made 60 before a wild stroke at Starc brought about his undoing. Jacks’ 47 was cut short by another brilliant Labuschagne special in the slips. He at least was not to blame. What Archer was thinking when he wafted Starc to catching third man can only be conjectured. And Brydon Carse was left unbeaten on 39. He has form with the bat, although his 14 wickets thus far have flattered him.
Both sides have much to ponder for Melbourne. For the tourists, Bethel should get his chance at number 3. Something must be done about both Pope and Duckett, although it is hard to find a replacement opener in the squad. Bashir must come in. This business of part-timers bowling long, prodigal spells cost England the match this time. For Australia, Green has underachieved all series, and might lose his place to Webster. Presumably Kuhnemann will replace Lyon, who was last seen hobbling around on crutches. And Smith will return, presumably in place of Inglis, who twice fluffed his lines. On to Boxing Day. There is still pride to play for. We wish England all the luck in the world. They will need some.