Heading into the final day of the thrilling fourth Test, England needed to claim five more wickets to level the series at 2-2 and set up a decider at the Oval in London next week. The home team fought valiantly, putting in their best efforts to bounce back after their victory at Headingley in the previous Test.
However, despite their determination and efforts, the wet weather played spoilsport, breaking the hearts of the home fans, as it denied England the chance to secure a series win in Manchester.
With the draw, England’s hopes of winning the series were dashed, and Australia, as the current holders, triumphantly retained the Ashes.
After posting a colossal 592 in their first innings — their highest Ashes innings total on home soil since 1985 — in reply to Australia’s 317 all out, they were frustrated as the tourists battled well on a rain-hit day four to reach 214-5 in their second innings.
Australia still needed 61 to make England bat again, or stay at the crease through to stumps on day five to earn the draw that would ensure they remained holders of the Urn.
The Manchester weather, however, came to their aid, as not a single ball was possible in torrential rain, ensuring that England’s eight-year wait for a series victory that would wrest the Ashes back from Australia would continue.
There is still plenty to play for next week at the Oval, especially for Australia, who can secure their first series win on English soil since 2001.
(With Reuters Inputs)
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest Cricket News Click Here
