Wisden Cricket Weekly Ashes Daily: Ashes all but retained after Cummins and Lyon star on day four
Dec 20, 2025
Lawrence Booth, a seasoned cricket journalist, joins the discussion post-day four of the Ashes. They dive into Australia's commanding position, just four wickets away from retaining the urn. Lawrence shares insights on England's potential for future victories in Australia. The duo analyzes key performances, including Crawley's impressive 85 and the effectiveness of England's spin options. They also critique strategic decisions, like Brook's risky reverse sweep. The conversation wraps with praise for Lyon and Cummins' pivotal roles in the match.
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Ashes Hinge On Late Spin Burst
- Australia finished day four four wickets from retaining the Ashes, leaving England with 207 for 6 chasing 436.
- Nathan Lyon's late flurry changed the match trajectory despite England's earlier fightback.
Persist With Length Bowling
- Bowl disciplined lengths at the tail and persist with the right plan rather than bowling half-volleys.
- England needed to bowl that length earlier in the match when it was still in the balance.
Scorecard Hides Key Partnerships
- England's scorecard (207 for 6) masks periods of strong batting, including Crawley's 85 and big partnerships.
- Crawley and Brook compiled useful stands that briefly put pressure back on Australia.