5th Test Played at Oval, England from 27-31 July 2023 

Brief Scorecard at Stumps Day Two 

England 283 All Out in 54.4 Overs (Harry Brook 85 /91, Ben Duckett 41/41, Chris Woakes 36/36, Moeen Ali 34/47, Michell Strac 4/82, Todd Murphy 2/22, Josh Hazelwood 2/54) 

Australia 295 All Out in 103.1 Overs (Steve Smith 71/123, Usman Khawaja 47/157, Pat Cummins 36/86, Todd Murphy 34/39, Chris Woakes 3/61, Joe Root 2/20, Suart Broad 2/49 and Mark Wood 2/62) 

The 5th and the final test of the Ashes now being played at traditional Oval, London following the trend of the current series has turned exciting and competitive. 

We are aware that Australia is the leading the series 2-1 after winning the first two tests, England stormed back winning the third. The fourth test was rain ruined with host England looking in complete control. 

Holder of the series was assured of keeping it in possession as the outcome of the 5th test would not have mattered. Winning or lose Ashes stays with Australia. 

Notwithstanding, with that Australia England Ashes rivalry always create hype and excitement. It has taken a new shape with England adopting a new Basball brand of cricket. As the brief scorecard evidence England produced 283 in their first innings playing only 54.4 overs. 

All batsman produced almost ran a ball innings with middle order batsman Harry Brook leading with 85 scored in 91 balls. Ben Duckett (41/41) and Chris Woakes (36/36). 

Mitchell Starc (4/82), Todd Murphy (2/22) and Josh Hazelwood (2/54) bowling to the best of their ability did not let England exploiting the advantage of making first use of the wicket.  Australia at stumps of day one finished at 61/1.

Experts thought Australia was able to take advantage scoring big in the first innings and putting home team under pressure. But England bowled and fielded superbly offering no free bees. At one stage Australia was reduced to 6/170. 

Chris Woakes and Mark Wood were bowling exceptionally well. On the other hand of the top and middle order batsmen only Steve Smith could grind and graft. Smith (71) partnering with Pat Cummins (36) and Tood Murphy (34) managed to earn a nominal 12 runs first innings lead scored 295 all out. Unlike host England, Australia batting in proper test innings took 103.1 overs. With two days gone the test appears evenly poised. 

While England unwilling to change their new batting style will continue Basball, Australia will leave nothing unturned to finish the series 3-1. Winning is very important as this improves position of the team in the ICC Test Championship. 

BDST: 1243 HRS, JULY 29, 2023
MN