How Did Cummins, Starc, and Lyon Lead Australia to Victory in the Adelaide Test?
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Synopsis
In a gripping Test match, Australia triumphed over England by 82 runs in Adelaide, securing the Ashes series. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon were pivotal, showcasing outstanding performances. With a 3-0 lead, Australia looks forward to continuing their dominance in the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Australia wins the third Test by 82 runs.
- Cummins, Starc, and Lyon lead with nine wickets.
- Australia retains the Ashes series with a 3-0 lead.
- England's lower order fought valiantly but fell short.
- Next Test starts on December 2 in Melbourne.
Adelaide, Dec 21 (NationPress) In a thrilling encounter, Australia secured an 82-run victory in the Adelaide Test, thanks to the remarkable performances of Mitchell Starc, captain Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon, who collectively claimed nine wickets. This victory allowed Australia to retain the Ashes series after achieving their third consecutive win this series.
With an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series in just 11 days of intense cricket, Australia matched the record for the fastest Ashes victory in a century, following comfortable wins in Perth and Brisbane.
Despite the defeat, England's lower order put up a commendable fight, especially from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts sparked hopes of a miraculous comeback, but Australia's disciplined bowling attack ensured they remained in the driver's seat, retaining the coveted urn.
Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Carse (38 not out) rallied for Ben Stokes' team after England was at 207-6 on Sunday. However, Mitchell Starc (3-62) led Australia closer to victory, with Scott Boland ultimately dismissing Josh Tongue to end the tourists' innings at 352, falling short of the 435 needed for a historic win.
Off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who took three wickets on day four of the third Test, is now doubtful for the remainder of the series due to a hamstring injury.
Earlier, Cummins and Lyon spearheaded the bowling effort on Day 4, pushing England down to 207/6 as they pursued 435 runs. The visitors needed 228 runs to secure victory, while Australia required just four wickets to clinch the series.
Starc stood out as the leading bowler, dismissing tailenders with figures of (3/62) in the second innings. Boland sealed the match by forcing England's No. 11, Tongue, to edge the ball to first slip, where Marnus Labuschagne made a stunning catch for his fourth of the match. Carse remained not out on 39, but his efforts proved futile.
Australia's dominance was evident on day two, as they took an 85-run lead, dismissing England for 286. Travis Head's brilliant 170 and first-innings centurion Alex Carey's 72 bolstered Australia's second innings total of 349, allowing the hosts just over five sessions to bowl out England.
Lyon took three quick wickets on Saturday, reducing England to 17 runs and nearly clinching the match. However, England fought back to reach 177-3, keeping the hopes of a Christmas miracle alive.
Australia will aim for a clean sweep against England in the fourth and Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, starting December 2, before the fifth and final Test on January 4 at SCG.
Brief scores: Australia 371 (Alex Carey 106, Usman Khawaja 82; Jofra Archer 5-53) & 349 (Travis Head 170, Alex Carey 72; Josh Tongue 4-70) beat England 286 (Ben Stokes 83, Jofra Archer 51; Scott Boland 3-45, Pat Cummins 3-69) & 352 (Zak Crawley 85, Jamie Smith 60; Pat Cummins 3-48, Mitchell Starc 3-62) by 82 runs.
Point of View
I view Australia's victory in the Adelaide Test as a testament to their cricketing prowess. The team's ability to maintain composure under pressure and deliver exceptional performances is commendable. While England showed spirit, Australia's dominance in this series is undeniable, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion as they aim for a clean sweep.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the standout players in the Adelaide Test?
Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon were the standout players, sharing nine wickets and leading Australia to victory.
What was the final score of the Adelaide Test?
Australia won the match by 82 runs, with England scoring 352 in their second innings.
How does this victory affect the Ashes series?
With this win, Australia has secured a 3-0 lead in the five-match Ashes series, retaining the title.
When is the next Test match?
The next match will be the fourth Test, starting on December 2 in Melbourne.
What impact did Nathan Lyon's injury have on the match?
Lyon's injury raised concerns about his availability for future matches, but he still played a crucial role in the Adelaide Test.
