Australia retained the coveted Ashes urn in dominant fashion, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with an 82-run victory over England on the final day of the third Test at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday.
England's Brave Fight Falls Short
Starting the day at 207 for 6, England's hopes were briefly revived by an aggressive innings from Jamie Smith, who scored 60. He built promising partnerships with Will Jacks and Brydon Carse, pushing the match into the post-lunch session. However, the resistance was broken by the Australian pace attack, led by Mitchell Starc. Crucial catches in the deep helped the hosts wrap up the English innings and seal a comprehensive series triumph.
Reactions from the Victorious Camp
Australian captain Pat Cummins expressed his elation, highlighting his team's resolve. "It feels pretty awesome. It wasn't easy today, but we got it done. It's an excited changing room," he said. Player of the Match, wicketkeeper Alex Carey, acknowledged the challenge posed by England, calling the final day "a real grind."
Mitchell Starc noted that England made Australia work hard for the win on a flat wicket, while batsman Marnus Labuschagne admitted to some nerves during England's fightback, praising his team's ability to hold firm.
England's Pain and Defiance
England captain Ben Stokes was forthright about the disappointment, stating, "Everyone is hurting and quite emotional about it. It hurts, it sucks, but we ain't going to stop." He credited Australia for outperforming his team consistently with bat, ball, and in the field over the 11 days of cricket played so far.
Head coach Brendon McCullum praised his team's effort and application, calling it a "fine achievement" to take the game deep despite the loss.
Looking Ahead and Historical Context
This victory marks Australia's fourth consecutive Ashes series win at home. The moment of the final wicket, taken by Scott Boland, was highlighted by former England captain Alastair Cook as a "special moment" that etches Boland's name in Ashes history. Ex-spinner Phil Tufnell called Australia's performance "thoroughly professional."
Looking forward, Pat Cummins cast doubt on injured spinner Nathan Lyon's availability for the remaining Tests in Melbourne and Sydney. Despite the series loss, Ben Stokes vowed that his team would "be flying into these next two games," emphasizing they still have much to play for.
