Bethell achieves exquisite maiden Test century to grant England narrow hope in Sydney
Jacob Bethell notched an exquisite, first-class century to ignite hope for an England resurgence in the fifth Ashes Test at Sydney, although a late slump on the fourth evening left the tourists at eight wickets down, with a lead of 119. At just 22 and in his sixth Test match, Bethell proved exactly why he was picked by the England selectors over a year ago, even when he hadn’t yet scored a professional hundred, finishing the day unbeaten on 142 and solidifying the challenging No 3 position.
After Australia was dismissed for 567 in their first innings — giving them an 183-run advantage — Bethell played a crucial role in England’s counterattack through significant partnerships of 81 and 102 with Ben Duckett (42) and Harry Brook (42), respectively.
Bethell registered his first Test century off 162 deliveries in style, advancing down the pitch to a Beau Webster off-spin delivery and powerfully dispatching four to deep midwicket with fearless intent. However, Webster (3-51) struck a potentially game-changing blow in his immediate next over; with the lead at 36, he removed Brook and Will Jacks within three deliveries, pushing England to five down suddenly.
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Beau Webster celebrates his double-strike that included the dismissals of Harry Brook and Will Jacks
Jacks’ dismissal was hasty, getting caught in the deep after an erratic swing across the line, while Jamie Smith (26) encountered a disastrous run out later in the evening session.
A limping Ben Stokes (1) could only score one run off five balls when he arrived at the crease, as the England captain had sustained a groin injury mid-over during the morning’s play.
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England skipper Ben Stokes limped off the field due to a groin injury on the fourth day of the final Ashes Test
Brydon Carse (16) also fell late in the day as England’s lead exceeded 100, but Bethell remains at the crease and will enter the fifth morning aiming for crucial runs with the tail in an effort to set Australia a challenging target in this concluding Test of the series. More updates to follow…Ashes series in Australia 2025-26Australia leads the five-match series 3-1
Published: 2026-01-07 07:00:00
source: www.skysports.com
