England captain Ben Stokes expressed disappointment after the fourth Ashes Test ended in a draw, resulting in Australia retaining the urn. Stokes felt it was a tough pill to swallow, considering England’s dominant performance throughout the match. He emphasized the team’s desire to finish the series on a high note by winning the final Test at The Oval.
The rain played spoilsport, washing out play on the fifth day at Old Trafford in Manchester, resulting in a draw. With Australia leading the series 2-1, England’s hopes of regaining the Ashes were dashed even if they managed to draw the series 2-2 by winning the next Test.
Stokes acknowledged the frustration of being on the wrong side of the weather after the team’s superb cricket in the first three days of the match. Despite bowling Australia out for 320 and scoring a massive total of 590, the English side couldn’t do more due to the unfavorable conditions. However, Stokes expressed pride in his team’s effort and singled out Zak Crawley for his incredible innings, which he believed would be a game-changer. Stokes also commended Stuart Broad and James Anderson for their outstanding performances throughout the series.
When asked about any regrets regarding his declaration in the first Test at Edgbaston, Stokes confidently stated that there were none. Looking ahead, he emphasized the team’s determination to finish the series with a win. Stokes hoped that the crowd would come out and support them in their quest to end the series on a positive note.
The fourth Test concluded with Australia at 214/5, with Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh unscathed at the crease. Marnus Labuschagne’s sublime century, his second away from home, played a significant role in Australia’s fightback. Despite trailing by 61 runs, England needed just five wickets to keep the Ashes alive and secure a victory by an innings. However, the weather did not favor them.
In the first innings, England showcased their dominance with a mammoth score of 592 in reply to Australia’s 317. Zak Crawley led the attack with a magnificent knock of 189, supported by impactful contributions from Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and Jonny Bairstow.
Looking at Australia’s first innings, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Mitchell Starc were the standout performers. Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, and James Anderson impressed with their bowling for England.
As Australia retained the Ashes, England’s hopes were squashed due to the rain-marred draw. Despite the disappointment, Stokes and his team remained determined to end the series on a positive note at The Oval.
