Xtra Time Web Desk: Hosts England will need 257 runs on the final Day to level the ongoing Ashes series at Lord’s. Australia will require six more wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five test match series. At stumps on Day 4 England are 114/4 with captain Ben Stokes batting on 29 along with opener Ben Duckett who is not out on 50.
Earlier in the day, Australia set England a challenging target of 371 runs for victory after being bowled out for 279 on day four. The match witnessed a dramatic collapse as the Australians lost 8-92 during a relentless bouncer barrage from England’s quick bowlers.
Usman Khawaja’s classy batting helped Australia recover, but a short-ball strategy by England eventually paid off, leading to his dismissal for 77. Travis Head and Steve Smith were also dismissed by the bouncer tactic, causing a significant collapse of 3-10 in just 34 balls.
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A notable moment during Australia’s innings was when the injured Nathan Lyon bravely hobbled out to bat at No. 11, earning a standing ovation from the Lord’s crowd as he contributed a crucial 15 runs for the final wicket.
England began their run chase with a bit of luck, as opener Ben Duckett survived a tough chance at gully off Mitchell Starc’s bowling. However, Starc struck back, dismissing Zak Crawley for 3 and then Ollie Pope for the same score. Pat Cummins joined the wicket-taking spree, removing England’s vice-captain Joe Root for a low score. The Australian bowlers dominated, leaving England reeling at 4-45.
Despite the challenges faced by both teams, the match remained enthralling, with bowlers delivering impressive performances and batsmen showcasing moments of brilliance. With England needing 257 more runs to win, the fifth day promises an intense battle between the two sides for Ashes glory.