Australia took a 3-0 series lead in Perth on Tuesday to reclaim the Ashes, defeating England by 150 runs.
Seizing their first Ashes win since 2006-07, the Aussies overcame a defiant England shortly after lunch courtesy of a bunch of wickets to Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Johnson.
Matt Prior’s early dismissal suggested day five could be a short one, but the resilience of all-rounder Ben Stokes created some real concern when he moved past the century mark and onto a score of 120 until edging a Lyon spin delivery onto Brad Haddin, leading to a tail end collapse.
Lyon then dismissed Graeme Swann, caught by Steve Smith, before Johnson claimed the final two wickets of Tim Bresnan and Jimmy Anderson.
The series defining victory represented an amazing turnaround in comparison to Australia’s efforts in the UK earlier in the year.
“We’ve had our fair share of criticism over the past couple of years but I know out in the Australian public we have had a lot of support,” captain Michael Clarke told ABC’s Grandstand.
“This win and getting the Ashes back home is all for the supporters that have stuck by us through thick and thin.”
Johnson’s Test career revival has been a major part of the Australian recovery. The left-arm fast bowler has taken 23 wickets at 15.47 through three Tests and is on track of Man of the Series honours.
Should Australia continue their form and close out the series 5-0, they would move up from fifth to third in the world standings.
The loss won’t do Alastair Cook’s position as England captain any favours- the typically fickle UK media have already begun calling for the his head, with The Mirror leading the charge against the beleaguered captain.
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