ADELAIDE (MNN) ; Australia delivered a dominant bowling display on the final day of the third Ashes Test to defeat England by 82 runs at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday, sealing an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series and retaining the Ashes urn.
Defending a stiff target of 435 in the second innings, the Australian bowlers maintained relentless pressure and discipline to bowl England out in 102.5 overs. The win ensured Australia would keep the Ashes, which England last held after their 2010–11 series triumph.
England’s difficulties on Australian soil continued, with this defeat marking their fourth consecutive Ashes series loss Down Under. The tourists have now suffered 16 defeats in their last 18 Test matches in Australia, highlighting the hosts’ dominance at home.
Resuming the final day on 207 for six, England relied on all-rounder Will Jacks and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith to keep their slim hopes alive. The duo extended their seventh-wicket partnership to 91 runs, briefly frustrating the Australian attack.
The breakthrough came when Mitchell Starc dismissed Smith, who was England’s top scorer with an attacking 60 off 83 balls, including seven fours and two sixes. Jacks continued to resist, adding another useful stand with Brydon Carse, but Starc struck again early in the second session to remove Jacks for a gritty 47 off 137 deliveries.
With Jacks gone, Australia tightened their grip and wrapped up the innings swiftly. Starc and Scott Boland cleaned up the tail by dismissing Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue. Carse remained unbeaten on 39 from 64 balls, hitting four boundaries and a six in a lone effort.
Australia’s bowling rewards were evenly shared, with captain Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon and Starc taking three wickets each, while Boland chipped in with one. The fourth Test will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30.
