Ashes 4th Test: Zak Crawley scored a brilliant century as England took a lead of 67 runs on day two of the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford. Crawley, who was dropped on 23, made 189 off 182 balls, his second Test century. He was supported by Joe Root, who made 84, as England reached 384 for 4 at stumps.
Crawley’s innings was a masterclass in attacking batting, as he took on the Australian bowlers and scored runs all around the ground. He hit 21 fours and two sixes, and his strike rate of 104.34 was the highest by any batsman in the Ashes so far this year.
Crawley’s innings was particularly impressive given the conditions. The pitch at Old Trafford was offering plenty of movement for the bowlers, but Crawley was able to negate that with his aggressive approach. He was also helped by some excellent strokeplay, as he was able to find the gaps with ease.
Crawley’s innings was a timely one for England, who were looking to get back into the series after losing the first three Tests. His partnership with Joe Root (84) helped England to recover from a shaky start, and his dismissal only came after he had put England in a strong position.
With Crawley leading the way, England will be confident of winning the fourth Test and keeping the Ashes alive. The 23-year-old has shown that he has the talent to be a world-class batsman, and his performance on Thursday was a reminder of his potential.
For Australia, Mitchell Starc took two wickets, but the tourists were unable to build on the momentum they had gained on day one. The day began with Australia resuming on 299 for 8. They lost David Warner early in the morning session, but Travis Head and Steve Smith added 50 for the ninth wicket before Head was dismissed for 48.
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Smith was then joined by Mitchell Starc, and the pair put on 54 for the tenth wicket before Smith was dismissed for 41. Starc was out for 19, and Australia were all out for 317.
England’s reply got off to a good start, with Crawley and Rory Burns putting on 55 for the first wicket. Burns was then dismissed for 24, but Crawley continued to score freely, reaching his century off 154 balls.
Root joined Crawley in the middle, and the pair put on 200 for the second wicket before Root was dismissed for 84. Crawley was then dismissed for 189, but England continued to score at a good rate, with Harry Brook and Ben Stokes adding 50 for the fifth wicket.
England will be hoping to build on their lead on day three and put Australia under pressure. The match is evenly poised, and it could go either way.
Key Talking Points
- Zak Crawley’s century was a brilliant innings. He batted with confidence and aggression, and he showed that he has the potential to be a world-class batsman.
- Joe Root’s 84 was another important contribution from the England captain. He is in good form, and he will be hoping to lead his team to victory in this match.
- Mitchell Starc was the pick of the Australian bowlers. He took two wickets, and he was always a threat with the new ball.
- Australia’s batting line-up struggled again. They were too reliant on Steve Smith, and they will need the rest of the batsmen to step up if they are to win this match.
The Verdict
The fourth Ashes Test is evenly poised after day two. England have the advantage, but Australia will be hoping to bounce back on day three. The match is sure to be an exciting one, and it could go either way.