Ashes 2023: England’s Bazball approach pushes Australia back in the game, Zak Crawley scores beautiful half-century

In the ongoing fifth Test of Ashes 2023, England has tightened their grip on the game. After bundling up Australia for 295 in the first innings England posted 130/1 in the second innings till lunch on Day 3. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett helped hosts to control the game as they smashed Aussies all around the park.

Duckett in his innings scored 42 runs off 55 balls with the help of seven fours. He was dismissed by Mitchell Starc before completing his half-century.

Meanwhile, Crawley continued to hammer Australian bowlers and completed his half-century. He along with Duckett added 79 runs for the first wicket. However, after Duckett’s departure England skipper Ben Stokes joined Crawley in the middle.

Both added 61 runs for the second wicket and led England to a commendable position. Crawley in his innings scored 73 runs off 76 balls with the help of nine fours. He was dismissed by Australia skipper Pat Cummins just after the lunch break. Notably, Crawley becomes fifth highest run-scorer for England as an opener in home Ashes history.

Pat Cummins helped Australia to score a respectable total

Earlier, in the game Australia failed to capitalize on the opportunity and post a comfortable score in the first innings. Australia skippers Pat Cummins along with Tod Murphy added 49 runs for the ninth wicket. Their partnership helped visitors to surpass the English total and register a minimal lead in the first innings.

Notably, Australia has retained the Ashes trophy after winning the first two games of the series. In the Third match, England made a comeback and lowered the deficit by 2-1. However, the fourth game ended up in a draw as rain washed out Day 5 of the game. Winning this match will help Australia to register their first-ever Ashes series Victory in England after 2001.