Australia has tightened its grip on the fourth Ashes Test in Sydney, moving within sight of a series-levelling victory despite a magnificent, backs-to-the-wall century from England's young batter, Jacob Bethell. The hosts require just five wickets on the final day to secure a win, while England faces a monumental task to salvage a draw, needing another 257 runs with their lower order at the crease.
Bethell's Defiant Stand Against the Odds
The story of the day belonged to 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, who produced a career-defining knock under immense pressure. Coming to the crease with England in deep trouble at 4/39, still 386 runs behind Australia's first innings total, Bethell displayed remarkable composure and skill. He weathered an early storm from the Australian pace attack, led by the ever-dangerous Pat Cummins, before gradually imposing himself on the match.
Bethell's innings of 118 runs from 235 deliveries was a masterclass in concentration and shot selection. He formed crucial partnerships, first with the experienced Jonny Bairstow and later with the tail, to frustrate the Australian bowlers for the majority of the day. His century, reached with a confident drive through the covers, was met with a standing ovation from the SCG crowd, who appreciated the sheer grit on display.
Australia's Persistent Attack Breaks Through
Despite Bethell's heroics, the Australian bowling unit chipped away with relentless discipline. Captain Pat Cummins was the chief destroyer, finishing the day with impressive figures of 4/62 from 28 overs. His ability to extract bounce and movement from the SCG pitch proved a constant threat. He was ably supported by spinner Nathan Lyon, who claimed the vital wicket of Bairstow, and the tireless Mitchell Starc.
The breakthrough finally came in the final session when Cummins found the edge of Bethell's bat, sending a catch to Steve Smith at second slip. This wicket opened the door, and Australia quickly removed Chris Woakes and Mark Wood in quick succession. At stumps on day four, England's innings stands at 9/274, still a mammoth 257 runs adrift of their target of 531.
The Final Day Scenario and Series Implications
The equation for the final day is starkly clear. Australia needs to take the final wicket of James Anderson to claim victory and level the series at 1-1 with one Test to play. For England, the goal is simple: survive. Last man Ollie Robinson, alongside the stubborn Josh Tongue, must bat out a minimum of 90 overs to secure an unlikely draw.
A win in Sydney would be a massive momentum shift for Australia, erasing the disappointment of their defeat in the second Test at Lord's. It would set up a decider in Melbourne, ensuring the Ashes urn remains up for grabs. For England, losing from this position would be a devastating blow after showing such fight through Bethell. The pressure now rests entirely on the shoulders of their final-wicket pair and the weather, which is forecast to remain clear.
All eyes will be on the SCG on Thursday as the dramatic Ashes series reaches another tense climax.
