Alastair Cook’s marathon double century highlighted the drawn fourth Ashes Test at the MCG.
Chasing Australia’s 327, Cook – after a lean summer – scored 244 not out in England’s 491, a first innings lead of 164. Cook scored a century on day two, then continued on day three, batting 10-and-a-half hours overall and facing 409 balls. Cook was supported by captain Joe Root (61), Stuart Broad (56) and Chris Woakes (26). Pat Cummins took 4/117, Josh Hazlewood 3/95 and Nathan Lyon 3/109.
Captain Steve Smith saved Australia’s second innings (4/263 declared) with a century (102 not out), compiling an unbeaten 85 for the fourth wicket with Mitch Marsh (29 not out) after only 44 overs were bowled on day four. David Warner scored 86 and Cameron Bancroft 27.
Well-positioned at 3/244 after day one, Australia lost 7/83 on day two. Warner scored 103 (after a reprieve on 99) and compiled 122 with Bancroft (26). Smith (76) and Shaun Marsh (61) scored half centuries. Broad took 4/51, James Anderson 3/61 and Woakes 2/72.
The fifth and final Test – the annual Pink Test at the SCG – begins January 4.
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