Can Australia Maintain Dominance on Day 4 After Bethell's Century?
Synopsis
On Day 4 of the final Ashes Test, Australia displayed dominance despite Jacob Bethell's impressive century. They maintained a 119-run lead over England, who were reduced to 302/8 at stumps. Can Bethell push for more runs and change the game's outcome?
Key Takeaways
Australia leads England by 119 runs at the end of Day 4.
Jacob Bethell scored his first Test century, showcasing his talent.
Beau Webster was instrumental for Australia, taking 3 wickets.
England's batting lineup faced significant challenges throughout the day.
The match remains competitive as England aims to recover.
Sydney, Jan 7 (NationPress) In a remarkable display of resilience, Jacob Bethell fought valiantly under pressure, yet Australia concluded Day 4 of the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in a strong position. The hosts effectively restricted England to 302/8 at stumps, maintaining a slender 119-run lead on Wednesday.
Australia resumed the day at 518/7, adding 49 runs to their overnight score before being dismissed for 567, thereby establishing a 183-run first-innings advantage.
England’s second innings got off to a shaky start as opener Zak Crawley fell in the very first over. However, Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett steadied the ship, guiding England to lunch at 80 for 1.
The second session began with Duckett's dismissal off a delivery from Michael Neser. Joe Root, who has been England’s top scorer in the series, appeared uneasy and was dismissed by Scott Boland in the 32nd over.
Vice-captain Harry Brook and Bethell then combined for a significant 102-run partnership, taking the score to 179 for 3 at tea. After the break, they continued their aggressive batting, with Bethell notching up his maiden Test century off 162 balls.
As hope grew for Ben Stokes' side, all-rounder Beau Webster shifted the momentum, dismissing Brook, who scored 42 off 48 balls, and then sending Will Jacks back for a duck.
Bethell continued to thrive, adding a crucial 45-run partnership with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who was dismissed in the 65th over after scoring 26 off 41 balls.
England’s struggles intensified with the fall of captain Ben Stokes, who edged a delivery from Webster to Steve Smith in the 66th over.
New batsman Brydon Carse started promisingly, hitting three boundaries, but was eventually dismissed by Scott Boland in the 71st over. England ended the day at 302 for 8, with Bethell remaining as their pivotal batsman. The visitors are hopeful that the 22-year-old can add further runs and aim for a double century.
For Australia, Beau Webster took 3 for 51, Scott Boland claimed 2 for 34, Mitchell Starc took 1 for 61, and Michael Neser finished with 1 for 55.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight Australia's commanding position in the final Ashes Test while acknowledging Jacob Bethell's noteworthy performance under pressure. This match showcases the competitive spirit of cricket, reflecting both teams' determination and skill.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Australia’s score at the end of Day 4?
Australia ended Day 4 with a score of 567, leading by 119 runs.
How did Jacob Bethell perform?
Jacob Bethell scored his maiden Test century, contributing significantly to England's innings.
Who were the key bowlers for Australia?
Beau Webster took 3 wickets, while Scott Boland claimed 2 wickets.
What is the current situation for England?
England finished Day 4 at 302 for 8, with Jacob Bethell remaining as their key batsman.
What was the partnership between Bethell and Brook?
Bethell and Brook had a crucial partnership of 102 runs.
