Australia Thrash England to Retain The Ashes

Australia has retained the Ashes after thrashing England by an innings and 14 runs on day 3 of the third test with two matches still to play. 

The Aussies debutant Scott Boland skittled England for an embarrassing 68 on Tuesday. 

AFP reports England resumed at the MCG on 31 for four, still 51 runs behind, after a disastrous final hour on Monday against some outstanding fast bowling that left their Ashes dreams in tatters.

Their survival rested on skipper Joe Root, but when he fell for 28, it was just a matter of time before the rest followed – all over before lunch in an embarrassing chapter for English cricket.

Boland, called up as injury cover, was invincible on his home ground, taking 6-7 off four overs, equalling the record for the fastest five-wicket haul in 19 balls.

Mitchell Starc ended with 3-29 as England’s misery was complete.

A dejected England captain Joe Root who is facing growing calls over his captaincy was a loss for words. 

“It is what it is.  Credit to Australia, they blew us away last night and they have outplayed us in this Test match – in fact the series so far. We have a lot of hard work to do now and come back strong in the last two games.”

Australian skipper Pat Cummins was the team has been outstanding.

“It is pretty insane. Just an awesome few weeks, everything clicked and everything worked out.  Thrilled for Scott Boland. We have been relentless. The bowlers have just turned up and owned their areas outside off-stump. There have been big partnerships, everyone’s performed, everyone’s contributed , it’s a great feeling.”

The fourth Ashes Test between starts on 5 January at the SCG with England hoping to salvage some pride after their humiliating loss and Ashes defeat.