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Live Reporting

Marc Higginson and Stephan Shemilt

All times stated are UK

Get involved

  1. Goodnight

    So, an absolutely stunning victory for England. The only downside has been James Anderson's injury.

    They go 2-1 up in the series with two to play. We move on to Trent Bridge next week for round four.

    Thanks for all your contributions over the last few days. You've played well! It's time for me to head off now, but stay tuned to BBC Sport's cricket pages for plenty more reaction.

    And enjoy tonight. If you're an England fan, of course!

  2. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Paul Heyes: Such a shame that all the Lyth criticizers weren't on the Aussie board of selectors in Steve Waugh's youth. They'd have got rid of him after his first nine innings averaged a mere 12.5, and he never would have darkened English grounds!

    Jeremy from London: I'm sick of the messages demanding Lyth be dropped from the side. He proved last year that he is the best opener on the county scene and you do not become a bad player overnight. Now if there was someone knocking down the door then I would consider a switch but the list of potential replacements is very thin with no outstanding candidate.

  3. How's stat?

    Scorecard
  4. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Paul: I would pick Chris Rushworth for the next Test. He is running through county sides and as a swing and seam, line and length bowler is a similar proposition to Anderson. Not a long-term replacement, but an interim measure and an indication that the County Championship has some merit, and an acknowledgement from ECB that the Championship can produce players.

    Bob Cluley: I'm surprised no one has mentioned Harry Gurney as a replacement for Anderson. Left arm; can swing it; Trent Bridge is his home ground.

  5. Player reaction

    James Anderson

    England bowler James Anderson, who will miss the next Test through injury, on Sky Sports: "I'm hoping to be fit for The Oval. It is not an intercostal injury. That is not the word I heard when they told me what it was. Broady, who has experience of these kind of injuries, told me not to bowl another ball. I set off but pulled up and didn't want to risk it.

    "I've been fortunate with injuries so you just have to take it on the chin. The medical team were happy with me and didn't think it was too serious.

    "Finny was fantastic. He has been bowling well in the nets and looked like he had never been away. Credit to him because he has worked so hard."

  6. Get Involved

  7. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    John Etheridge (the Sun cricket correspondent), on TMS: "It won't surprise many people if this is Michael Clarke's last series because of his injury problems."

  8. Post update

    Glenn McGrath

    Ex-Australia seamer on BBC Test Match Special

    Pat Cummins and Peter Siddle

    "Peter Siddle bowls good areas, while Pat Cummins has only played one four-day game in the past year. Would they try him? They have to bowl better than they did in this Test match."

  9. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "Players have not been happy with the Brad Haddin situation, with the 'family first' policy not being used any more. But Nevill batted really well last night and this morning - he and Starc batted the way that most other batsmen in this Test match should have played."

  10. Aussie problems

    What do Australia do next? Bring back Shane Watson? Give Shaun Marsh a go?

    I reckon Mitchell Marsh is batting a place too high too, judging by his dismissals in this match. Adam Voges is the man most likely for the chop.

  11. Come and play for us, Belly...

  12. Player reaction

    More from Steven Finn: "I try to appreciate every moment that I wear the England cap and shirt. The crowd was incredible, so thank you to them.

    "The dark times teach you to enjoy the highs a little bit more. To be here at the moment and help win a Test match for England is a great feeling.

    "I feel good at the moment with the ball in my hand, but who knows what might happen in the future? I'm happy and glad to be playing for England again."

  13. Take a bow

  14. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Andy Genney in Scunthorpe: Not only a crushing victory over the Aussies but England ensuring the day three crowd gets full value for money. Well done all round!

  15. Player reaction

    More from man of the match Steven Finn: "When I dreamt about it before the game I didn't quite think it would go as well as it has. I was just happy to be playing.

    "I felt in good rhythm. You have to trust the work you've done. An early wicket settled the nerves.

    "Yesterday was probably as good as I've bowled in Test match cricket, thankfully the ball came out in nice areas."

  16. Cheeky!

  17. 'I doubted if I'd play again'

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Steven Finn

    England bowler and man of the match Steven Finn on Test Match Special: "I've tried to enjoy every moment of this week. It has been fantastic and I'm thoroughly enjoying Test cricket again.

    "There are a few nerves in the first few balls and you question yourself but after that it was focusing on getting people out. The thing I have tried to focus on in the last 18 months is understanding when you have bowled well and being fair on yourself when you have not taken wickets. As long as the ball is coming off the end of my fingertips I am happy.

    "It is as nice a feeling as I have ever had taking a wicket. It is the most I have ever celebrated a wicket. I did doubt at times if I'd play again but knew I could be good enough again. To be stood here now, there is no better feeling."

  18. Get Involved

  19. Captain's view

    More from England captain Alastair Cook: "Sport has a great way of testing you, and for Steven Finn to come back like that was fantastic. Standing there at slip for that spell, you thought they were going to get a nick every ball. It's a happy dressing-room for Finny. Class is permanent, Ian Bell is a fantastic cricketer, but we've got to keep backing the right horses and trust me, Ian Bell is one of them. Jimmy's injury gives somebody else an opportunity to stand up."

    On England's win-loss-win-loss-win-loss-win sequence in their last seven Tests:

    "If the sequence carries on for nine, I'll be happy!"

  20. Post update

    Michael Clarke and Steven Finn

    Michael Clarke's problem in this match? Steven Finn. The big, strapping fast bowler got the skipper out in both innings - bowling Clarke with a beauty in the first dig. Finn finished with match figures of 8-117.

  21. Get Involved

  22. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Dean in Australia: Play Haddin as keeper and Nevill as number 6 batsman. Sack Clarke and end the all-rounder experiment at number 5.

  23. Captain's view

    Michael Clarke

    More from Michael Clarke: "The captain is due to get off the plane, that's the plan for the next Test match.

    "I can't put my finger on it. It's always about my preparation. If I do the hard work, that's gives me the self-belief. England have bowled well at me and got me out early.

    "My record at five is better than at four, but it's about what is best for the team. I still believe we can win the series, but we have to play our best."

  24. England's strength in depth

    Michael Clarke has just 94 runs in 18 innings in this series, while Adam Voges at number five has just 73.

    England's number eight - Moeen Ali - has more than the pair of them put together.

  25. Get Involved

  26. Captain's view

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Australia captain Michael Clarke on Test Match Special: "It is really hard to be honest. This is the way it has gone. This is similar to Cardiff. It is as simple as we need to make more runs as a unit and execute better with the ball. I was happy with the way the tail wagged this morning and fought hard. That is a good sign and something we need to do more of.

    "The spirit is good. I couldn't be happier with the preparation. It is not as simple as saying one man is to blame. We need to try our best and that is what this team is doing. I need to turn my form around because at the moment we are playing with 10 players. The number four has not turned up. I need to find a way to score runs. I will prepare hard and keep the faith it will happen in the middle.

    "We don't wish injury on anyone but Jimmy Anderson missing could be a bit like 2005 when we lost Glenn McGrath. But I'm sure whoever comes in will do well for England."

  27. Get Involved

  28. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    John Etheridge (the Sun cricket correspondent), on TMS at lunchtime: "Trevor Bayliss has made it clear he'd like to play two spinners at some point. Moeen Ali hasn't been completely fit, I think he's still getting over that side injury, but I don't have massive concerns over him."

  29. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Nicholas Keyden: With Jimmy out, the sensible option would be for an out and out replacement. Broad has nip and seam, Finn bounce and pace. Choosing Wood may lead to lack of variety, especially given swing bowlers' history of success at Trent Bridge. Perhaps Tim Bresnan could return to the fold? Would like to see Jack Brooks, although unsure of his readiness for Test match cricket, let alone the middle of an Ashes nail-biter.

  30. Crocked Jimmy

    James Anderson

    Alastair Cook on James Anderson, who has been ruled out of the fourth Test at Trent Bridge next week: "Sport is cruel. We were celebrating his birthday (33) yesterday. It shows time is getting on - he's had a remarkable run of fitness. Unfortunately it's caught up with him a bit. He's devastated.

    "Fingers crossed for The Oval, we might be able to get him there."

  31. Get Involved

  32. All hail Edgbaston

    More from Ian Bell: "The crowd has been incredible. It's been a great week for us, but there's lots of hard work to go over the next couple of weeks.

    "The great thing is coming home in familiar surroundings and with a lot of support. When I walked out to bat, it felt like everyone was with me, hopefully that's the start of me coming back to form.

    "I've been involved in a few of these series and I know Australia will fight all the way."

  33. Captain's view

    More from England captain Alastair Cook: "We need to thank everyone who's turned up over these three days, the Edgbaston atmosphere is unique and it was as loud as I can ever remember it. The way Jimmy bowled in that first innings was fantastic, but I don't think it was a 140 all out pitch. You always wonder whether cricket has a sting in the tail, but it's good to see Ian Bell back in form."

  34. Get Involved

  35. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Alex Lee: This series has had more ups and downs in it than a hyperactive kid on a pogo stick. Who's knows what will happen next.

    FranKO: That's a good win, that, especially after the 405 run drubbing at Lord's...

    Alice Stainer: Absolutely riotous victory! Proud of the response to the ignominy of Lord's. Can we try & win the next one too?

  36. Brief recap

    Just joining us? Wondering why we're still here?

    Well, England were pushed hard by Australia today. The tourists dug in and their tail managed to set England a target of 121.

    Mitchell Starc got rid of Alastair Cook with a beauty and Adam Lyth was lbw to Josh Hazlewood, but Ian Bell and Joe Root finished the job off. Both men were positive in their play and the finish came with a flourish.

  37. Player reaction

    Australia captain Michael Clarke: "It's very hard to explain. Credit has to go to England, they bowled well on day one and we didn't bat anywhere near we'd have liked. I still would have batted first, you can see the wicket has deteriorated.

    "It swung and seamed throughout the whole game. We probably had the best batting conditions, we just didn't execute with bat and ball."

  38. Get Involved

  39. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    "It was an amazing win for England in Cardiff and amazing how badly they lost at Lord's and now amazing to come back here.

    "Michael Clarke must go away with his team and worry that if the pitch at Trent Bridge is one that moves they will struggle again. They have struggled against the moving ball. They have been pathetic. They didn't graft and didn't work. If they play like they did here again, the Ashes are gone. They have to adapt to the situation."

  40. Post update

    A Question of Sport Teaser

    Today we asked you; Apart from Mitchell Johnson, which three other left-arm bowlers have taken 300 wickets & scored 2,000 Test runs?

    The answers are: Wasim Akram, Daniel Vettori and Chaminda Vaas.

  41. Post update

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    England captain Alastair Cook on Steven Finn: "Amazing comeback from Finny. This is what sport does. It is a test of you as a bloke. You have amazing times and tough times and it is how you handle that. Finny has had that.

    "The character to come back after a lot of hard work is incredible. We haven't seen a changing room as happy for anyone as it was for Finny taking his wickets.

    "It was heartbreaking to see one of your friends go through what he did in Australia. He should be incredibly proud tonight of the way he bowled."

  42. Get Involved

  43. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    "I will be interested to see how Australia react to this. They reacted well at Lord's. The biggest positive for them is Jimmy Anderson missing out. It could be a real twist in the series."

  44. Get Involved

  45. Player reaction

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    England captain Alastair Cook on Test Match Special: "We didn't do ourselves justice at Lord's and we just didn't play well. We talked about starting well. In the other Tests, the side that started well dominated the game.

    "I don't think it was a 140 all out wicket. The bowlers set the game up well. We wanted more than 280, but the way we bowled again was fantastic."

  46. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Daniel Leland: I'm sad to see the game end! The way Root and Bell were batting, it would have been interesting to see how much they could get! Pleased to see Bell's form returning.

  47. Get Involved

  48. Post update

    Not like our Geoffrey to dish out opinions, is it?

  49. Player reaction

    Ian Bell speaking to Sky Sports: "It's full of enjoyment in the dressing room after a tough week at Lord's.

    "Our bowlers set the tone on day one, it was some of the best bowling I've seen as part of the England set-up.

    "Geoffrey Boycott told me this morning how bad my shot in the first innings was, so I was determined to be there at the end."

  50. Post update

    England have got to be pleased with the performances of some of their big players - Ian Bell scored half-centuries in both innings after being moved up to number three and James Anderson was at his supreme best on the first day. He will be sorely missed at Trent Bridge.

    And what about Steven Finn? He was devastating - his 90mph snorters ripping the heart out of the Australian line-up.

  51. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Joe Root and Ian Bell celebrate

    Howard Horner: Can't think of a more surprising, more joyous Test victory. Well done boys!

    Gary Russell: Faith & tenacity priceless in sport. Ian Bell, Steve Finn take a bow. Great performances under scrutiny. Class is permanent

    Tim Collingwood: Well done England. Bell and Root showed great maturity and professionalism. Gave the Aussies respect but showed no fear.

  52. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    "England have been excellent. It's always special playing at Edgbaston, you get the lift of the crowd. It makes it very difficult for the opposition. It always feels like this ground is very patriotic. I'm sure it will be the same at Trent Bridge."

  53. Get Involved

  54. Post update

    So England win inside three days, in a match where there's been more drama than an Eastenders omnibus.

    It seems like an age ago that Jimmy Anderson was ripping through the Aussies on the first morning.

    And to think, when Australia won the toss and chose to bat, there was a collective groan in the UK. Here we go again was the general consensus. We were wrong.

  55. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    "A really good performance from England. I don't think there's anyone on the ground that wouldn't have batted first, but Australia didn't do it well enough. Only getting 136 was where the game was lost."

  56. Final scorecard

    Scorecard
  57. Post update

    Hold that thought, Michelle. On its way...

  58. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Rachel T: Absolutely superb comeback from England and we all ended up laughing at Mitchell Johnson. LOVE it!

    Gordon Thursfield: England 2 Oz 1. Well done England. Maybe Lords was the aberration not Cardiff. On to Trent Bridge.

    Michelle Garland: Can we have the final scorecard please so I can put it on my office door before I leave?!!

  59. Post update

    fans in fancy dress

    A victory fit for a Queen. And a corgi. And two beefeaters.

  60. Post update

    Jonathan Agnew

    BBC Test Match Special

    "Who would have thought before a ball was bowled in this series and after that hiding at Lord's that they would beat Australia by eight wickets and be 2-1 up. Australia will be devastated by that defeat. This is not over yet but England have taken a giant stride to winning back the Ashes again."

  61. Get Involved

  62. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Gordon Thursfield: Come back Shane Watson all is forgiven. A.N.Aussie

  63. Post update

    Lots of backslaps in the England dressing room, then Alastair Cook leads the lads down the steps and to the side of the pitch for handshakes. Cook looks very, very pleased. And why not?

  64. Post update

    Joe Root and Ian Bell

    Joe Root and Ian Bell embrace. Both men look quite emotional. The Australians wait around for handshakes and then sheepishly make their way from the middle.

  65. BreakingENGLAND WIN BY 8 WICKETS

    Joe Root

    Joe Root flicks the ball through square leg and England win the match, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.

  66. Eng 120-2

    Joe Root ends the over with a single. One to win. He retains the strike.

    Michael Clarke pulls the field in. The horse has bolted and is in West Brom now, Pup.

  67. Eng 119-2

    Dot ball.

    Got you then, didn't I? You thought that was it...

  68. Eng 119-2

    Joe Root sweeps Nathan Lyon for four.

    Two to win.

  69. Eng 115-2

    A single for Ian Bell. England need six to win.

    Go big, Joe Root.

  70. Post update

  71. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    England supporters

    "The subdued atmosphere of this morning's session feels like a lifetime ago. The noise from the Hollies Stand is ear-splitting as they mercilessly taunt Mitchell Johnson."

  72. Eng 114-2 (Bell 64, Root 29)

    England need to get a move on. They only have another two overs left before tea. Meanwhile, there's all sort of shenanigans happening in the stands. There's a fella dressed as part-ostrich. I think it's an ostrich at least.

    Meanwhile, there's some cricket going on. Joe Root knocks another four from the target.

  73. Get Involved

  74. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Tattz: Man of the match? No question - the Edgbaston crowd. Magnificent.

  75. Eng 110-2 (need 11 to win)

    Mitchell Johnson

    It's official. Mitchell Johnson is finished in this match. After Nathan Lyon's latest set of six, which go for four, Mitchell Marsh is brought on for a bowl.

  76. Eng 106-2

    Mitchell Johnson has now dropped his glasses. Edgbaston has broken him.

  77. Eng 106-2 (need 15 to win)

    The noise is deafening. Forget 100,000 at the MCG. England have 20,000 at Edgbaston. It's putting off Mitchell Johnson who aborts his run-up. Then he bowls from behind the crease. Lost it. Gone.

  78. Get Involved

  79. Eng 106-2 (need 15 to win)

    Mitchell Johnson

    I didn't realise cuddly toys were so prevalent in offices up and down the country. I feel like I'm missing out.

    Mitchell Johnson is getting some frightful stick now. He's bowling some 2009-style dross. Very, very wide. The crowd appeal in jest.

  80. Get Involved

  81. Review

    Eng 106-2 (need 15 to win)

    Joe Root chases one down leg. The Aussies appeal for a feather behind. Umpire shakes his head. They review it.

    Not out. Nowhere near it!

  82. Alternative Plans - Pt. 2

    Join the debate at #bbccricket

    fans in fancy dress

    sarah: Your fancy dress needn't go to waste. Women's FA Cup Final at Wembley tomorrow.

    Clive J Goodwin:‏ Tomorrow sees the return of Petts Woodstock music festival. I can enjoy the day now without checking my phone every few mins.

    Steve Doswell: Ashes fans in Brum with no play tomorrow come and watch Cannon Hill parkrun 9am. Better still, sign up and run - it's free.

  83. Eng 106-2 (need 15 to win)

    It rally is deafening inside Edgbaston, a party atmosphere. Nathan Lyon cuts a frustrated figure, swiping at the non-striker's stumps then faking a throw of the ball back at Ian Bell. If you were one of the umpires, would you take the extra 15 minutes? I would, especially with Bell slog-sweeping for four.

  84. Eng 101-2

    Tea is scheduled for 15:40 BST, but it can be delayed by four overs or 15 minutes if the umpires think England are close to victory. Twenty left to win.

  85. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Alan Fraser: Obviously, I realise that England are still going to lose from here - but for the life of me I can't see how.

  86. Eng 101-2 (need 20 to win)

    The crowd sing 'stand up if you're 2-1 up'. Feel free to send pictures of yourself standing to salute England if you want. It's time to get the party started. Mitchell Johnson is round the wicket to Ian Bell now and he bowls a horrible leg-side ball. Cue more familiar chants...

  87. Get Involved

  88. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Andrew Bowan: I hate to argue with oracle Geoff Boycott but his call for four-day Tests is fundamentally flawed. Yes, they are usually over in four days but you have to factor in bad weather time. If there the first day's a washout, you're kippered.

    Emma: I would be heartbroken to see test matches restricted to 4 days! Think of the wonderful, edge-of-the seat 5th-day finishes over the past two decades, let alone the history before that. We would lose so much of the depth and richness of the game if we shorten tests.

  89. Eng 100-2

    And now Ian Bell is getting back in on the boundary act - driving four off the back foot through the covers. Just 21 to win now.

  90. Eng 96-2 (need 25 to win)

    Joe Root

    Nathan Lyon, looking like he's wearing Merv Hughes's shirt, pitches up outside off stump and Joe Root plants him over cow corner. Six. Another hoick flies high into the air. But it's safe, and Root picks up a single.

    Young Joe wants a pint with his tea...

  91. Post update

  92. Eng 88-2 (need 33 to win)

    Will this be over by tea? England aren't going to rush it.. Joe Root watching a Mitchell Johnson delivery sail harmlessly through.

  93. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    LimertillyWeatherwax: Guessing it'll all be over by 16.09.

  94. Get Involved

  95. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    Ian Bell

    "The move to three has worked for Ian Bell. I thought in the first innings his body language was different. And in the last hour I've loved the way he has gone about his business with style."

  96. 50 for Bell (off 68 balls)

    Eng 88-2

    Mitchell Starc

    Mitchell Starc is the only one of the Australian frontline bowlers to have an economy rate above four an over - and it's not hard to see why when he starts bowling some awful wide stuff outside off. He's keeping Peter Nevill busy.

    When he does straighten up, Ian Bell cuts four down to third man. And that brings up his 45th Test half-century. Two half-centuries in the match. In a low-scoring clash, that's very, very useful.

  97. Get Involved

  98. Eng 82-2 (need 39 to win)

    Joe Root

    Joe Root is playing as though he's seen it all before. He's 24. Josh Hazlewood pitches the ball up and is driven back down the ground for four.

  99. Eng 78-2 (need 43 to win)

    Australia players

    Everyone's just waiting for the inevitable now. The crowd's gone quiet, the Aussies have lost their edge and Ian Bell is coasting towards a half-century. Shall we run a sweep on what time victory arrives?

    Ian Bell clips two into the leg side. That target is slowly coming into view.

  100. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Benjaminjohn: I'm willing to allow myself the thought that England at least stand a chance here.

  101. Eng 76-2

    Mitchell Starc steams in for one final burst. Ian Bell just pats the ball back.

  102. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    Ian Bell

    "Ian Bell has got footwork, talent, front and back foot, the whole range of shots. He has touch and plays straight. I can't fault his batting. But sometimes it is between his ears that he does daft things."

  103. Get Involved

  104. Eng 76-2 (Bell 46, Root 11)

    Ian Bell

    The luck's running all England's way now - Ian Bell is surprised by the bounce Josh Hazlewood gets and skies the ball towards backward square leg but it lands safely. Aided by him taking one hand from the bat and not following through with the shot.

  105. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    "I don't think he has bowled with the right ideas, Josh Hazlewood. He has been striving all the time for wickets. Part of that is because of the poor total Australia got. But he is a Glenn McGrath type of bowler, with a tall action. He should be bowling at the corridor at off stump. He'd get a bucketful."

  106. Get Involved

  107. Eng 75-2 (need 46 more to win)

    Michael Clarke is the solitary slip for Nathan Lyon, who doesn't seem to be bowling the crackerjack deliveries which so unnerved Moeen Ali in England's first dig. Just a single. All very sedate.

  108. Alternative plans?

    Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Rick Crawley: Told there's a match tomorrow at Harborne Cricket Club. Wonder if they fancy a full house.

    Simon Mills: Will be consuming lunch / tea meal and beer as planned. Wig and vest bought for fancy dress probably not necessary.

    Rich Mantle: Well at some point it will all be over and I won't have one eye on the cricket at my wedding tomorrow...

  109. Eng 74-2 (Bell 44, Root 11)

    Josh Hazlewood is a lovely bowler. 84mph. Lands it on a sixpence. Bit of shape. A little nibble.

    He's stuck with just the one wicket in this innings for now though - Ian Bell chipping three more from the target.

  110. Get Involved

  111. Post update

    Jonathan Agnew

    BBC Test Match Special

    Michael Clarke

    "This is where Clarke is neither here or there. He needs to attack and put people in positions to take wickets but it could lead to runs."

  112. Eng 71-2 (need 50 more to win)

    If Ian Bell setting off like a train resembled him in one-day mode, it's as if we're into the middle overs of an ODI now as Ian Bell and Joe Root milk singles. Nice and steady wins the Test from here.

  113. Scorecard update

    England 68-2 (15 overs) - target 121

    Batsmen: Bell 39*, Root 10*

    Fall of wickets: 11-1 (Cook 7), 51-2 (Lyth 12)

    Bowling figures: Starc 4-1-25-1, Hazlewood 4-0-13-1, Lyon 5-1-21-0, Johnson 4-1-9-0.

    Australia first innings 136 (Rogers 52, Anderson 6-47)

    England first innings 281 (Root 63, Moeen 59, Bell 53, Lyon 3-36, Hazlewood 3-74)

    Australia second innings 265 (Warner 77, Nevill 59, Starc 58, Finn 6-79)

    Australia won toss

  114. Eng 68-2 (Bell 39, Root 10)

    That Australian slip cordon is shrinking... down to two now as Michael Clarke looks to plug gaps elsewhere. He needs to keep England batting as long as possible so it's damage limitation now. Josh Hazlewood is bowling a probing line and length, but when he strays down leg Ian Bell picks up a single.

  115. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Sam: Lyth, damned Lyth and statistics.

  116. Eng 67-2 (need 54 more to win)

    Joe Root plays a top-edge sweep shot, a few flutters in the England camp but it lands safely. Drinks.

  117. Post update

    Tom Fordyce

    Chief sports writer at Edgbaston

    England supporters

    "With every boundary the mood among the England supporters moves up another gear, the cheers louder, the more plastic pint pots sloshed together in celebration. Nerves? Not so many now, even though the scar tissue runs deep, even though stranger and nastier things have happened."

  118. Eng 64-2 (target 121)

    Ian Bell wagonwheel

    Ian Bell is very busy at the crease, almost as if he's in one-day mode. He's not getting paid overtime.

    Mitchell Johnson digs one in and Ian Bell flicks a single off his hips. Some short stuff for Joe Root too, but he rides it well - getting above the bounce.

  119. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Charlie Drayton: As much as I'm loving seeing it, one bad series (so far) doesn't make Clarke a bad captain or player.

    Kai: Strange how Clarke is untouchable whilst Cook is permanently under the lights…dropping Bell and leaving Johnson on the boundary until now would see Cook's army of part-time critics sharpening their swords.

  120. Get Involved

  121. Eng 63-2 (Bell 36, Root 8)

    Joe Root

    Joe Root is England's top run-scorer in this series - and he adds four more to his total when he gets tall in his crease and belts Josh Hazlewood through point. He's got 283 runs in three matches now.

    Which is not as many as two Australians - Chris Rogers (385) and Steve Smith (354).

    Yet it's England who are on their way to a 2-1 series lead...

  122. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Jacob Newbury: Surely now Lyth must be dropped. He is not up to it at this level. Hales in for a debut on his home ground? No better time!

    Andy Cole: Lyth only had to sit in there. Bell was getting the runs, just had to drop anchor and push the odd single. Sorry fella but we need to change openers again for Trent Bridge. Can't bank on the bowlers every time especially with Anderson.

  123. Eng 59-2 (need 62 more to win)

    Who takes a pantomime horse to the cricket? There's one trotting around the perimeter of the stands at Edgbaston. Good effort.

    Mitchell Johnson is punched for a couple by Ian Bell. Then two more. He's playing a fine hand here. Seems to like it at number three.

  124. Post update

    Glenn McGrath

    Ex-Australia seamer on BBC Test Match Special

    "There is still a little bit of seam movement in the deck. You just need to get the length right and be patient. Australia have just looked to try and take too many wickets and gone for runs."

  125. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    David: And that will be that for Adam Lyth's Test career. Who's next in the list of openers?

    Alistair Dixon: Alex Hales in for Adam Lyth. Great attacking batsman that keeps getting Lythed out!

    Paul Roberts: What are the Aussies doing? Lyth will be rightly replaced now for Trent Bridge & Eng might get an opener who can make a score.

  126. Eng 55-2

    Rod Stewart

    Got a ticket for tomorrow or Sunday? What do you plan to do instead?

    Have you got to go to a function you thought you'd got out of? Maybe you're going to check out the sights of Birmingham? A quick internet search tells me there's a Rod Stewart tribute act on!

    "Wake up Maggie..."

  127. Post update

  128. Eng 55-2

    Stand and deliver. Joe Root's first ball is clobbered through point for four. Rooooooooooooooooooooooooooooot!

  129. Post update

    Jonathan Agnew

    BBC Test Match Special

    Adam Lyth

    "Lyth has 12 but that is not enough to stop people talking about his place in the side. Out comes Root. If these two can stay together for half an hour then the game will be over."

  130. WICKET

    Lyth lbw b Hazlewood 12 (Eng 51-2)

    Josh Hazlewood

    Three reds from ball-tracker means there's no red-inker for Adam Lyth. He couldn't have been much more plumb.

    One more and we get worried?

  131. Review

    Eng 51-2

    Josh Hazlewood and Adam Lyth

    Josh Hazlewood back into the attack and he seams one back into Adam Lyth's pads. Out.

    But the batsman's going to review it.

  132. Get Involved

  133. Eng 51-1 (Lyth 12, Bell 32)

    You get the sense Mitchell Johnson hates getting stick from the crowd. As though he might one day turn round and offer to bowl at all 20,000 spectators. One ball at each. At the Waca. I wouldn't fancy that.

    Ian Bell chases a wide one. Then pulls the bat out of the way of a rising, straight one. Maiden.

  134. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Amanda Rutter: Edgbaston is an utter joy to listen to when they're in full voice.

    Chris Lennon: I never tire of that Mitchell Johnson chant!

    Isobel Pyrke: The sound coming from Edgbaston, even over TMS is EXTRAORDINARY.

  135. Post update

    Simon Mann

    BBC Test Match Special

    "There is an element of you or me about this. It is not quite Pietersen v Lee at The Oval in 2005 but Bell is taking Johnson on here."

  136. Eng 51-1 (need 70 more to win)

    Nathan Lyon goes up for a vocal appeal - on his own - when he hits Adam Lyth's pads.

    Getting desperate now. Too high, going down leg.

  137. Scorecard update

    Scorecard
  138. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Ben O: Clarke's just dropped Bell's P45!

  139. Eng 51-1 (target 121)

    Adam Lyth and Mitchell Johnson

    Mitchell Johnson stands with his hands on his head as Ian Bell plays a loose drive through gully for four. The big fast bowler reponds with a slower ball (77mph) which is at the stumps but well defended by the batsman.

  140. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Michael Clarke

    phillip bryant: Michael Clarke seems to be taking calls for Ian Bell to be dropped far too literally!

  141. Eng 47-1

    First ball from MJ? Well wide. Ian Bell would have needed a fishing rod to hit it. The crowd barrack the mean fast bowler. Like poking a lion that, surely?

  142. Get Involved

  143. Post update

    Phil Tufnell

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    Ian Bell and Adam Lyth

    "The players sat in the dressing room will be loving this. There is nothing better than a flurry of runs when you are chasing a small total, just to ease the nerves."

  144. Eng 47-1

    Mitchell Johnson

    Here comes big, bad Mitch.

  145. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    "The Edgbaston crowd are signing "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" at Twickenham decibels. A little hors d'oeuvre ahead of the Rugby World Cup."

  146. Eng 47-1 (target 121)

    Nathan Lyon to Adam Lyth. Four through the covers. Bobbing along nicely.

  147. Eng 43-1

    Undeterred, Ian Bell plays the same shot which almost got him out by running Nathan Lyon for four down to third man. Then he jumps back into his crease and pushes two into the off side.

    It's as though Bell's gone out and said to Adam Lyth, "don't worry... I've got this".

  148. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    More Balls Blog: ‏Ian Bell must have dinner plans, he's getting this over and done with as soon as possible!

    Craig Desjardins: Bell could wrap it up from here :)

    Chuck Macleod: Happily admit that I was calling for Bell to be dropped. Goodness gracious me I am so glad to be wrong.

  149. Post update

    Phil Tufnell

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "It was a poor shot by Ian Bell. It was a straightforward kind of catch and when you have a small total you have to hold them. Michael Clarke will be devastated. How important could that prove to be?"

  150. Dropped catch

    Eng 36-1

    Michael Clarke

    Oh no, skip. You've just dropped the Ashes. Or something like that - Ian Bell guides a simple catch into Michael Clarke's hand at second slip but the captain grasses it.

  151. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Evan Samuel: Know Clarke will be worried about runs, but he has to go with Johnson at some point - sooner, not later

  152. Eng 35-1

    And another. An attempted yorker is off radar and Ian Bell helps it on its way to fine leg. We'll be done at 3 at this rate.

  153. Post update

    Jim Maxwell

    BBC Test Match Special

    "This is the issue with Starc. He is a strike bowler but he does leak boundaries."

  154. Eng 31-1

    Ian Bell

    Then Ian Bell smokes four more through the covers. Two boundaries in two balls. Momentum. Shifted.

  155. Eng 27-1

    Mitchell Starc gets another set of six, pitches the ball up and Ian Bell drives him down the ground for four. Displaying the bat manufacturer's logo all the way. Page 23 in the textbook.

  156. Eng 23-1 (Lyth 8, Bell 8)

    There's visible cracks on the Edgbaston pitch, and the footmarks are becoming more pronounced - but Adam Lyth is not letting such thoughts disturb him. He guides four through point. On the rise, I should add. Keep it on the deck.

  157. Get Involved

  158. Eng 19-1 (target 121)

    Bell then angles four down to third man. That'll do, Ian.

  159. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Alex Pitt: So it begins...

    Chris Reid: YES STARC. Just what was needed.

    Paul B: Come on Ian Bell, see this innings out and get everyone back on your side.

  160. Eng 15-1

    I tell you what... Mr T in his tank wouldn't have got near that delivery from Mitchell Starc which got rid of Alastair Cook. Unplayable. Ian Bell gets one too - a jaffa zooting past the outside edge. Twitchy buttocks.

  161. Eng 15-1 (target 121)

    What nerves? Ian Bell strolls to the crease, clips four off his pads and then does a bit of gardening. As though he's just nipped out for his Sunday paper.

  162. WICKET

    Cook b Starc 7 (Eng 11-1)

    Alastair Cook

    OK... this wasn't part of the plan. No panic yet though.

    Alastair Cook is bowled by a ripper from Mitchell Starc, the ball pitching on middle and pinning back off. At 90mph. Edgbaston is silenced.

    How should we take our minds of this tension which is surely about to develop?

  163. Eng 11-0 (Cook 7, Lyth 4)

    The Edgbaston crowd don't sound too nervous - as though they are entertaining themselves while England slowly throttle the Aussies. Cheers for every run too... Alastair Cook pushing three through the off side.

  164. Eng 8-0

    What should England do here? Bat properly or try and rattle through the target and put Australia to bed? Alastair Cook intakes sharply before facing Nathan Lyon. A firm defensive prod, then a shouldering of arms. Bit of turn for the spinner, mind.

  165. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Phil Slatter: Even if we get to 120-0, there will still be England fans doubting a win.

  166. Get Involved

  167. Get Involved

  168. Eng 8-0 (target 121)

    More importantly, Adam Lyth is leaving quite well outside off stump. No silly nibbles and the Aussies will be living off crumbs.

  169. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Tirzah T: STOP with the lowest score stats... you're making us a whole lot more nervous.

    Marcus: Says lot when England negotiate a winning position and all we can think about is the different ways they can blow it.

    Gary Wright: Let them bowl all day, give them plenty opportunity to pull a muscle.

  170. Eng 8-0 (target 121)

    A huge roar rips through Edgbaston as Adam Lyth caresses four through the covers off a not-too-amused Mitchell Starc.

  171. Post update

    A Question of Sport Teaser

    Today's #QSTeaser from @QuestionofSport: Mitchell Johnson and which three other left-arm bowlers have taken 300 wickets & scored 2,000 Test runs?

  172. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Rachel T: 121 to put the nightmare of Lord's firmly in the bin. Come on lads!!

    Tom Metcalf: Come on England! If each of you can score 11 then it's in the bag!

    Matthew Vernon: Ok, time for some positivity to counteract the pessimists. Eng will get the runs by tea and will lose no more than 2 wickets.

  173. Post update

    So, the sky is blue and there's just the odd cloud in the sky. The weather's set fair. But there's a storm on the horizon. Will Hurricane Mitch be sweeping through Edgbaston this afternoon? Let's hope he just skirts by.

  174. Dad's Army?

    "What time does the bingo open, Brad?"

    "Not sure, Shane."

    Brad Haddin and Shane Watson
  175. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Voges wicket

    Jeremy Ford: We're gearing up for a tense session! Thought I'd email you our photo of the Voges wicket re-enactment from yesterday...

  176. Fortress Edgbaston?

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "As an Australian, I've been here at Edgbaston for T20s, ODIs and county matches, but never a Test - and I've been blown away by this game. The club's been smart by insuring themselves against an early finish, the pitch is good it's the most hostile place I've seen for tourists - why don't they always play the first Test of every series here?! Look at the Gabba in Brisbane - Australia haven't lost a Test there since, I think, 1988."

  177. Post update

    Thanks Stephan. Anybody got anything to calm the nerves? A nip of brandy will do.

  178. Post update

    How was your lunch? Relaxing? If your nerves can take it, Marc Higginson is here to talk you through the afternoon session.

  179. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Stephen Brenkley (the Independent's cricket correspondent) on TMS: "Adam Lyth's under a lot of pressure at this point, mainly because of the way he's getting out. Forget about technique, he may not have the temperament for [international cricket] if he's playing balls like he did in the first innings."

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "He's probably got three innings to turn it around. I thought Lyth should have been the player dropped rather than Ballance."

  180. How's stat?!

    The lowest totals England have failed to chase:

    • 85 - Scored 77 v Australia, The Oval, 1882
    • 124 - Scored 62 v Australia, Lord's, 1888
    • 124 - Scored 120 v Australia, Manchester, 1902
    • 137 - Scored 64 v New Zealand, Wellington, 1978
    • 145 - Scored 72 v Pakistan, Abu Dhabi, 2012
  181. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "We should remember that Steven Finn was so young when he came in - and we often see young fast bowlers having to go away and rebuild because of injury. It happens as well with batsmen who have success when they're young, and can come back stronger."

  182. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Glen James: Do you think the dominant Aussie sides of 10-15 years ago would have considered 121 a "tricky little chase"? Absolutely not! There's more than enough class in this England team to score 121 runs in 8 sessions at half a run an over. Come on England!

    Nick Sims: Can't help thinking Australia have revenge for Headingley '81 firmly in their sights.

  183. Anderson's replacement

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Stephen Brenkley (the Independent's cricket correspondent) on TMS: "I think it's been deemed that Jack Brooks doesn't have the pace, as he only bowls in the low 80s. There's a desire to get a left-armer into the side, which is why Mark Footitt has been mentioned. But Wood has a very good record at Trent Bridge, he's taken 17 wickets there for Durham at 22. Tim Bresnan has a high batting average this summer, but a high bowling average too... In the conditions that are likely to prevail at Trent Bridge, Anderson is a huge loss."

  184. Anderson's replacement

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "We understand at Cricinfo that it's going to be Mark Wood, as Woakes isn't quite ready yet. But the selectors haven't even met yet."

  185. Anderson's replacement

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    John Etheridge (the Sun cricket correspondent), on TMS: "I exchanged texts with Jimmy Anderson last night when he was just about to have a scan. I'm not a medical expert, but I wouldn't think. Chris Jordan has a similar injury and hasn't played for a month and a half. Mark Wood is probably next in line, but they could go for Chris Woakes. He would probably still be in the Test team if he hadn't got injured. But it was a glimpse into the future this morning - a future without Anderson."

  186. Who remembers this?

    Trent Bridge 2005
  187. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Stephen Brenkley (the Independent's cricket correspondent) on TMS: "Haddin missed the Lord's Test for family reasons, but has been left out here for cricketing reasons. That's the risk you run when you miss a Test. Of course they want Brad's family to be fine, but they must pick the best team. Nevill's done nothing wrong."

  188. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    neil leverett: And breathe... for now.

  189. TMS journalist panel

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Melinda Farrell from Cricinfo on TMS: "When Michael Clarke introduced his team at Government House, he made a big thing of joking about the 'Dad's Army' tag. I thought at the time this might come back to bite him. They've already lost Ryan Harris, Brad Haddin might find it very difficult to come back in, and the one guy who's making runs, Chris Rogers, has already said he's going to retire. And Clarke - is this a form slump?"

  190. Anderson's replacement

    Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Will Norriss: I think that Harry Gurney should be in with a shout bowled well for Notts this year

    Will Hinch: Surely it's worth giving Ryan Sidebottom a call for Trent Bridge. Coax him out of retirement for a couple of Tests?

    dg: Surely Reece Topley has a shout. Tall left arm with pace something we've missed.

  191. Post update

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    John Etheridge (the Sun cricket correspondent), on TMS: "England are officially the most inconsistent team in world cricket - if they win this, their last seven Tests will be win, loss, win, loss, win, loss, win."

  192. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Ben in Devon: I've just been to my Grandad's funeral, he was a real cricket lover and England fan. The vicar announced the score during his address to much happy laughter! Come on England, do it for Walter!

  193. Post update

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    John Etheridge, Stephen Brenkley and Melinda Farrell

    Test Match Special has assembled its journalists' panel for the lunch break. Aggers is joined by the Sun's John Etheridge, the Independent's Stephen Brenkley and Melinda Farrell of Cricinfo.

  194. Post update

    Vic Marks

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "On the evidence of those two overs, Australia can not hang around too long before they toss the ball to Johnson. he is the one that can make things happen. In a normal game, 117 runs is no problem, but in Ashes Test?"

  195. Lunch scorecard

    England 4-0 (2 overs) - target 121

    Batsmen: Lyth 0*, Cook 4*

    Bowling figures: Starc 1-1-0-0, Hazlewood 1-0-4-0.

    Australia first innings 136 (Rogers 52, Anderson 6-47)

    England first innings 281 (Root 63, Moeen 59, Bell 53, Lyon 3-36, Hazlewood 3-74)

    Australia second innings 265 (Warner 77, Nevill 59, Starc 58, Finn 6-79)

    Australia won toss

    Full scorecard

  196. Post update

    Vic Marks

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "As a fielding side in these circumstances, I don't think you can waste too much time working out the odds,. You need discipline as well as aggression. You also need luck. And everything has to be caught."

  197. Lunch

    Eng 4-0

    England get through to the break, their cucumber sandwiches will taste pretty good. At 4-0, they need another 117 runs for a 2-1 lead in this Ashes series. Australia need a drop of inspiration in their cup of tea.

  198. Eng 4-0 (target 121)

    And again. Hazlewood too straight, Cook working through the leg side. Michael Clarke strikes a familiar pose, hands on hips. "Come on fellas, my job is on the line."

  199. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Alexander White: Post 2000 England have 4th innings totals of 72 (Pak, 2012), 79 (Aus, 2002), 103 (Aus, 2015), 108 (NZ, 2008), 123 (Aus, 2010).

  200. Eng 2-0 (target 121)

    Alastair Cook

    One ball for Alastair Cook, England under way, clipping Hazlewood through square leg for a couple.

  201. Post update

    Vic Marks

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "I overheard some English supporters this morning saying that they hoped Australia had a good morning, but no more than that. And that is pretty much where we are at."

  202. Eng 0-0 (target 121)

    Starc, all arms and legs, a mop of dark hair, slides in to left-hander Lyth, the ball shaping away. Lyth, no feet, defends into the off side and screams "no" to his captain. Lyth leaves well and leans on his bat. Last ball, uncertainty, almost gets an under edge to gully. One over down, one to go.

  203. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Emma Conway: PHEW.

    Adam Gallivan: 121 to win in two and a half days. Surely even England can't stuff this up.

    John Burns: 121 in two and a half days? It can be done. Just don't have the top order come out swinging and losing silly wickets.

  204. Eng need 121 to win

    Alastair Cook and Adam Lyth

    The England openers are cheered down the steps, smiling as they glide over the turf. Mitchell Starc is marking out his run, he's been all over Lyth in this series. Four slips and a short leg.

  205. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    MrAstonVilla: This Australia lead gives Lyth a great opportunity to contribute and hold on to his opener spot.

    Arsene's Eyes: At least getting a lead past 80 gives Australia plenty of opportunity to get Lyth out again.

    Gez Lloyd: Surely this is set up for Lyth to come good and prove his worth!

  206. Eng need 121 to win

    Mitchell Johnson is getting loose, the heavy roller is trundling up and down the strip. Not many have left their seats, there's a lunch interval for moving around. The Aussies huddle, then break. Could well be two overs for England to face.

  207. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    David in Shanghai: Anyone remember us chasing 144 against Pakistan on a road in Abu Dhabi? I do. I was there. It didn't go well. Still think this class are made of sterner stuff. Come on England.

    Mike Warrington: England were cock-a-hoop yesterday and thought they had won the match by yesterday evening. You can bet the Aussie bowlers will be giving England hell and we will be nervous - I can see some quick wickets and the result could go either way.

    Mike Hawksworth: I am starting to think the unthinkable.

  208. End-of-innings scorecard

    Scorecard
  209. Eng need 121 to win

    England players walk off

    Are you happy with that? Think 121 will be a doddle? Or are we in for a nervous afternoon? Time for superstitions? Are you going to stay still all through England's innings? Stay in the same chair, the bathroom, the car, the swimming pool?

  210. Eng need 121 to win

    As Vic Marks points out, England will probably only have one over to face before lunch. Those six deliveries will have a big say on how well their food tastes.

  211. Post update

    Vic Marks

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "It can go wrong chasing a target like this. It won't be straightforward. There will be nerves jangling in the England dressing room. England will have tricky little five minutes just before lunch. It is not vital to get any runs during that but they could do with hanging in."

  212. WICKET

    Starc c sub (JE Poysden) b Moeen 58 (Aus 265 all out)

    Jonny Bairstow and Josh Poysden

    That'll do! Moeen Ali gives it some air, Mitchell Starc takes the bait and sub fielder Josh Poysden does the rest at cover. England will need 121 to win this match and take a 2-1 lead. Steven Finn leads his team off, showing the ball to an Edgbaston crowd that is standing to applaud.

  213. How's stat?

    Andrew Samson

    BBC Test Match Special statistician

    "There is a statistical case for Nathan Lyon being the best ever number 11. He has 268 runs at 22.33, which is the best average of anyone with more than 150 runs batting at 11."

  214. Aus 265-9 (Starc 58, Lyon 12)

    Steven Finn back into the attack, one over to get loose before he takes the new ball. Mark Wood sits on the England balcony, his ankle was fit enough for him to take part in the warm-up game of football this morning. Lyon gets an inside edge on to his thigh pad, the ball ballooning to keep short leg interested. Still Edgbaston waits.

  215. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Jam Prictor: Here's a question for you lot If England do go on to win this, how many wickets will they lose in the process?

    Graham Wilkins: As a pessimistic England fan raised in the 90s I must admit I am mortified at the prospect of a "tricky small chase".

    Leø: This sounds ridiculous, but I can't help but feel that a 130+ run chase would be a bit laborious for England. Squeaky bum time.

  216. Aus 264-9 (lead by 119)

    Starc still swiping, looking to hit the ball to West Brom, gets nothing. Another swipe, a single to mid-on. All a bit flat, as if England are waiting for the new ball. If Australia last that long, lunch can be delayed for an hour because they are nine wickets down.

  217. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    Fans

    "These two local lads are on a stag do but apparently the rest of their troupe aren't arriving in their costumes until tomorrow. That was the least of their worries, however. Their main concern was how many more English ducks we will be seeing today?"

  218. Aus 262-9 (lead by 118)

    Mitchell Johnson has his whites on, ready to bowl, biting his nails. The trumpeter plays The Final Countdown as Mitchell Starc swats down a Stokes short ball like a man blowing the head off a dandelion. Steven Finn gets loose, ready to take the new nut. These really are the best batting conditions of the match.

  219. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Tom v d Gucht: Let's be honest, this is shaping up to be a re-run of Trent Bridge 2005: Anderson hobbling off after his first innings wickets swung the game in England's favour = Simon Jones (hopefully Anderson will play Test cricket again) leaving the field injured and England a bowler down in the second innings. The Aussies setting a nail biting low score chase for England, probably to include a top order collapse, before Ali (the 2015 Ashley Giles) narrowly sees us over the line...

  220. Aus 262-9 (lead by 117)

    If you look at the 12:20 entry, the reference to England's failed chase of 85 in 1882. That was effectively the birth of the Ashes, "the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia". Still lovely sunshine in Birmingham, still Moeen, still some Aussie swiping. Five from it. There's four overs until the new ball is available.

  221. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Jonny: I hope the English batsmen make batting look as easy as the Aussie tail have done today. Somehow I doubt it! Nervy run chase me thinks.

    Nigel in Leeds: Nightmare scenario coming. I can see Australia setting England around 150 to win here. Test match history is littered with teams getting skittled for chasing low totals.

  222. Aus 257-9 (lead by 112)

    My boss, the optimist, wanders over to tell me that England will be 102 all out as the trumpeter leads a chorus of the national anthem. At the moment, this chase doesn't feel twitchy. If Australia get it up to 150, perhaps we'll reassess. Lyon, a Test best of 40, leans into a cover drive to take Stokes for four. With the Australia tail batting in this fashion, it suggests the England top order should cope just fine.

  223. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    Nathan Lyon

    "Australia are doing what you would expect them to do. They are fighting. They have shown what you are supposed to do when you play England. The lower order have tamed some of the top order players."

  224. Aus 252-9 (lead by 107)

    Mitchell Starc

    Mitchell Starc won't die wondering here. Expect the long handle. Slog sweep at Moeen, nothing but fresh air, Jos Buttler cops one on the chin. The field is spread for Starc, up for Lyon. Two games in one. Maybe they should think about spreading it for Lyon too? A sweep for four.

  225. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Callum Seymour: ‏It's almost over! Another huge sigh of relief! COME ON ENGLAND!!!

    Laura Lambert: Different shape but that Root catch reminiscent of memorable Strauss '05 catch in terms of reaction speed and sheer agility.

    John Burns: Trouble with tail enders he says. Get a wicket and prove me wrong. Well played England.

  226. Aus 245-9 (Stokes 9-2-23-1)

    Ben Stokes

    Yep, Nathan Lyon should have been given. The ball was crashing into the top of middle and leg, not even an 'umpire's call'. For the second time today, England have been denied a wicket.

  227. How's stat?!

    • The lowest target successfully defended in Test cricket is 85 by Australia v England at The Oval in 1882. They won by 7 runs.
    • The lowest target Australia have successfully defended against England since 1902 is 179 at Melbourne in 1950.
    • The lowest target successfully defended in a Test at Edgbaston is 151 by England against Australia in 1981.
  228. Aus 245-9

    Number 11 Nathan Lyon immediately tested by Ben Stokes, two appeals in two balls. The first denied because he's a smidge outside the line, the second looks... very close. Too high? Aleem Dar not impressed. I'm giving it.

  229. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    "That was a top catch, It was going across the left hander, short of a length and he flashed at it. Root has dived and gone at it with two hands but he actually caught it with one hand. It is a cracking catch. A corker."

  230. WICKET

    Hazlewood c Root b Stokes 11 (Aus 245-9)

    England players celebrate

    What a catch! It's another stunner from England, this time from Joe Root at third slip. Josh Hazlewood flashes at new bowler Ben Stokes, gets an edge, Root flies goalkeeper-style to his right, taking the ball in two hands above his shoulder. Edgbaston erupts, Hazlewood is sung off the ground, England need one more wicket.

  231. Post update

    Geoffrey Boycott

    Ex-England batsman on BBC Test Match Special

    Mitchell Starc celebrates his 50

    "Terrific effort from Australia. These late-order players are vital in any side. Starc plays very straight to the seamers. The ball is doing nothing now for the seamers. It is much easier to bat now than on the first day."

  232. 50 for Mitchell Starc

    Aus 245-8

    Mitchell Starc accepts the challenge, hoiking Moeen over mid-on, all the way for... six! 50 for Starc, bringing a cheer from the Australia fans, something that we haven't heard in some time. If this is like Edgbaston 2005, is Starc playing the role of Brett Lee?

    Mitchell Starc
  233. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Colin in Cardiff: I had a horrible feeling this morning - I'm an England fan - that this could be very awkward for Cook and Co. A friend on social media told me I was being silly, but I couldn't shake the feeling that more than 100 to chase could be tough.

  234. Aus 239-8

    Moeen Ali really is firing the ball in, 55, 56mph. What about some F&G, get it above their eyes? Chat around the bat, Starc's eyes light up, a mis-hit down the ground for four more. That's what England are looking for.

  235. Post update

    Tom Fordyce

    Chief sports writer at Edgbaston

    England supporters dressed as beefeaters

    "The Hollies Stand seldom has a problem with relaxing - you don't come dressed as Mr Motivator or a squadron of Beefeaters if you're consumed by self-doubt and darkness - but that eighth Aussie wicket has certainly soothed a few twitchy nerves. Sympathy for the Nevill? Not in these parts."

  236. Aus 235-8 (lead by 90)

    Off-spin from both ends, Joe Root greeted by the chant that sounds like he's being booed. I wonder why we haven't seen Ben Stokes? Mitchell Starc certainly likes the look of Root, biffing over mid-on for four.

  237. Scorecard update

    Australia 230-8 (70 overs) - lead by 85

    Batsmen: Starc 36*, Hazlewood 11*

    Fall of wickets: 17-1 (Rogers 6), 62-2 (Smith 8), 76-3 (Clarke 3), 76-4 (Voges 0), 92-5 (M Marsh 6), 111-6 (Warner 77), 153-7 (Johnson 14), 217-8 (Nevill 59)

    Bowling figures: Anderson 8.3-5-15-1, Broad 20-4-61-1, Finn 20-3-78-6, Moeen 12-3-41-0, Stokes 8-1-23-0, Root 1.3-0-2-0.

    Australia first innings 136 (Rogers 52, Anderson 6-47)

    England first innings 281 (Root 63, Moeen 59, Bell 53, Lyon 3-36, Hazlewood 3-74)

    Australia won toss

    Full scorecard

  238. Aus 230-8 (lead by 85)

    Moeen wheels away, firing the ball in with three catchers in place. Hazlewood, Zorro, gives it some flashing blade and gets four to third man. Lead edges towards 100.

  239. Drinks break

    Aus 226-8

    I'm fairly certain the players paused for drinks. Still Moeen Ali after the break...

  240. Get voting

    Who will replace James Anderson in the fourth Test at Trent Bridge? You can have a vote on that very subject at the top of this page.

    The vote closes at 13:30 BST. Terms and conditions here.

  241. Post update

    Glenn McGrath

    Ex-Australia seamer on BBC Test Match Special

    "Australia have kept the scoreboard ticking, which they need to do. England went searching for wickets. Out of the three days so far, this is easily the best day for conditions."

  242. Aus 226-8 (lead by 81)

    It looks like Alastair Cook will need a crowbar to get the ball out of Steven Finn's hand. The tall pacer has gone for an hour this morning and is again streaking in, hanging the ball outside the off stump of Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon, number 11, waits, yawning. We've all faked a yawn to look cool before, haven't we?

  243. Get Involved

    #bbccricket

  244. Aus 225-8 (lead by 80)

    Spin for the first time today, Moeen round the wicket to this pair of left-handers. Starc in a tangle, swiping a full toss into his own boot. He eventually manages to negotiate a maiden.

  245. Highest partnerships in the match

    Ashes
  246. Aus 225-8 (Starc 36, Hazlewood 6)

    Some wonderful fancy dress in the crowd. The grim reaper, Chelsea pensioners, Zippy, a triceratops. That's just the Australia balcony. The sun dips behind a cloud as Finn sprints towards Hazlewood, four slips waiting. Bumper, Hazlewood playing it from somewhere near the square leg umpire.

  247. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Simon Godfrey: Popped to the loo yesterday missed two wickets. Pop to loo now, miss wicket. Necks pint of water...

    Ben Bush: Justice for England!! Neville out.

    Jack Fraser: ‏Glad to see my notifications are back working!!

  248. Aus 224-8 (lead by 79)

    The Edgbaston crowd sits a little more comfortably, but is immediately lifted by the sound of the Barmy Army trumpeter. Is that Billy's first appearance of the match? Hazlewood might be number 10 and even have the appearance of a man backing away, but he gets his share of runs. Twice he pushes Broad down the ground. Are we already looking at this match going past lunch?

  249. How's stat?

    Andrew Samson

    BBC Test Match Special statistician

    "This is the fourth time in an Ashes Test that England have had two players take six-for in a match. Two of those were in the nineteenth century, the third was at Headingley in 1981: Botham and Willis."

  250. Aus 218-8 (Finn 18-3-76-6)

    Ian Bell and Jos Buttler

    I haven't given that catch from Jos Buttler anywhere near enough credit. A couple of steps to his left, take off, thrust out the left hand, about shoulder high, cling on and roll over. Quite brilliant. Steven Finn has career-best figures on his return to Test cricket, while Josh Hazlewood is the new man. Edgbaston, full of relief, is standing to applaud the Middlesex pacer.

  251. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    Peter Nevill

    "He is just hoping hot spot isn't working there. When you have two reviews left you just take the chance. Apparently, Hazlewood used to open the batting in junior cricket."

  252. WICKET

    Nevill c Buttler b Finn 59 (Aus 217-8)

    Steven Finn

    The wicket the whole nation was craving! Peter Nevill is walking back, condemned by the HotSpot mark on the edge of his bat. Down the leg side, another wonderful diving take by Jos Buttler. Steven Finn has a sixth wicket and England are two strikes away from a chase. Can we calm down now?

  253. Umpire review

    Aus 217-7

    Gone this time! Another brilliant catch by Jos Buttler! Peter Nevill the batsman, another leg-side catch. The review comes right away, Nevill thinks he's been hard-done-by...

  254. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    Joe Root and Ian Bell

    "If this lead is beyond 100 and this pair are out there I am still not concerned, but I will start to get a bit of a flap on. When you see balls flying past the slips and past the stumps, you start to think, hang on..."

  255. Aus 217-7 (lead by 72)

    Yep, this chin-music theory doesn't look to be the way forward, not least because Broad is only getting the ball to waist-height. Australia continue to accumulate and Edgbaston continues to watch on in near-silence. My kingdom for a wicket.

  256. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    "You can always tell when a match is going through a truly gripping phase. The bars are empty and the seats are full. That's the case at Edgbaston at the moment, where the volume is as low as it has been at any point over the three days. The pervasive sound is the hum of nervous conversation, occasionally interrupted by claps from the flag-waving Aussies in the South Stand."

  257. Aus 214-7 (lead by 69)

    I'm not sure about this plan from England. Broad round the wicket, short leg, two men on the hook. Nevill is ready for the short one and takes a single. Starc on strike, long conflab between captain and bowler. England going through the playbook. To add perspective, it does feel like good conditions for batting and this ball is 63 overs old. Proper Test cricket, really.

  258. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    Ben Stokes and Stuart Broad appeal

    "Australia have played well. Ben Stokes' review yesterday was a bad review and it often happens in Test cricket that if you do that it often comes back to bite you. England need to be patient."

  259. Aus 212-7 (lead by 67)

    Speculative from England, Finn asking the question against Starc with the ball going well over. Fuller from Finn, Starc easing into a drive through the vacant cover area. Four more. Finn, like Candi Staton (or, if you prefer, Florence and the Machine), throws his hands up in the air. Who's got the love to see him through? I wonder how long it will be before there's a bowling change.

  260. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Ashley Wells: That was out. The umpire may have just made a huge call, but it'll teach England not to waste reviews.

    Oliver Reid-Smith: And that's why you don't waste reviews of speculative LBWs...

    Paul Lewis: I wonder if Peter Nevill will get the abuse for not walking that Stuart Broad did in 2013.

  261. Aus 208-7 (lead by 63)

    Lots and lots of you are tweeting to remind me of 2005, when Michael Kasprowicz was given out down the leg side, despite his hand not being on the bat. A decade on, has it evened itself out? We'll see. Broad strives towards the reprieved Nevill, who defends off the back foot. There have been 40 runs scored this morning.

  262. Post update

    Phil Tufnell

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    Steven Finn

    "England have had a shocking start this morning, simple as. They have gone looking for it a bit too much if you ask me. They need to put it in the right areas."

  263. Aus 207-7 (Nevill 57, Starc 26)

    To rub salt in England's open wound, Starc drives Broad for four to bring up the Aussie 200, with three through the off side bringing up the 50 partnership. Some worried faces in the crowd, the Edgbaston hum is full of concern, rather than expectation. How odd there was more joy when Australia were six down, rather than seven. Flash from Nevill, four more. Lead to 62. How are you feeling?

  264. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Mike Morris: Already got a bad feeling about this morning

    Andrew Lawton: 19 from the first two overs?! What is going on??

    Chris Parker: Does anyone know if Haddin or Nevill can outfield? Both batting better than Voges at the minute

  265. Aus 196-7

    It's hard to blame Chris Gaffaney for that. The movement of Nevill's body would have made it very hard for him to see what the ball hit. England will be thinking of the review they used last night, asking for lbw against Nevill in hope more than expectation. It really was a fabulous take by Buttler, athletic, spectacular. The tensionometer cranks up another notch.

  266. Post update

    Jonathan Agnew

    BBC Test Match Special

    "That is out. There is no doubt that flicked the glove. But if you burn off your reviews that is what happens."

  267. Aus 196-7

    Stuart Broad

    What a catch! Gone? No! Chris Gaffaney shakes his head. Jos Buttler dives to his left, spectacularly holding on down the leg side as the ball deflects off something of Peter Nevill's. Bat? Hip? Glove? Gaffaney unmoved, England have no reviews left. What did it hit? It brushed the glove! Stuart Broad denied his 300th Test wicket. More importantly, Australia still have three wickets in hand.

  268. Aus 196-7 (lead by 51)

    Let's not get carried away. Australia are still effectively 51-7. England have bowled well, Australia charmed to not get an edge to hand. Stick two wickets on that and we're having lunch in the pub.

  269. Close!

    Aus 196-7

    Ian Bell and Adam Lyth

    Have the cricketing gods decided to give Australia a break? Finn to Starc, a flash, four through the gap between third slip and gully. Four, lead past 50. Alastair Cook tells gully to come to fourth slip, closing the gate when the horse is three fields away.

  270. Post update

    Tom Fordyce

    Chief sports writer at Edgbaston

    "Talking to England supporters around the ground, there is total agreement on the preferred course of action today: an England win in as short a time as possible, no matter that this would mean minimal cricket to watch. This is what years of Ashes defeat and dejection have done to the national psyche: fear where there should be confidence, trepidation where there should be celebration."

  271. Aus 192-7 (lead by 47)

    Broad round the wicket to Starc, who stands upright with the look of a man who thinks footwork is for losers. Leg-side, a clip through mid-on for four, followed by a single. Lead edging towards 50. Stick 100 on that and we're in for an unbearably tense day. 24 runs have come from the first three overs.

  272. Post update

    Phil Tufnell

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "This is not good for England. It will hurt. They will want to have come out and be right on the money. Those two overs will have sharpened them up for sure. But it is crucial runs for Australia."

  273. 50 for Peter Nevill

    Aus 187-7

    Peter Nevill and Mitchell Starc

    He's had some fortune this morning, but Peter Nevill has played well. A maiden Test half-century is well deserved, especially when you think he came to the crease at 92-5 last night. He's got stuck in, nudging and nurdling. He's been around for 126 balls.

  274. Replacing Jimmy

    Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Jim Clack: Have I missed something - why is Overton not being mentioned for next game?

    Danielle Cross: I reckon give Jack Brooks a shot in the next Test... as Bumble said he is a similar bowler to Jimmy Anderson!

    James Robinson: Am I the only one who wants to see James Harris come in for Jimmy at Trent Bridge? Great swing bowler with bags of potential.

  275. Close!

    Aus 187-7

    Steven Finn

    Don't be fooled into thinking that this isn't a good pitch. Starc shows as much with a push down the ground for three. Nevill on strike. Close again! Tries to withdraw the bat, inside edge, past the stumps, missing by a coat of varnish. Finn can't believe it, wearing the expression of a man who has just found out they are still making Mission Impossible films.

  276. How's stat?

    Andrew Samson

    BBC Test Match Special statistician

    "Headingley 1981 is the only time in a Test match that a team has still been behind at the fall of their sixth wicket in the third innings of the match and gone on to win."

  277. Aus 176-7 (lead by 31)

    Huge noise as Steven Finn's name is announced. The lanky, dark-haired pacer reduced Australia's middle order to smouldering ashes yesterday. Round the wicket to leftie Mitchell Starc.

  278. Close!

    Aus 176-7

    Edged! Just short of the slips. Broad is moving the ball away from the right-handed Nevill, who thrusts forward. Playing with soft hands saves him. Broad stands with hands on hips, vexed. Big applause for the end of the first over.

  279. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Ryan Gilbert: Right, slyly put the headphones in at the desk, TMS on the wireless. Come on England!

    Simon Newport: Listening to TMS at work, colleagues think I'm number crunching and need to concentrate. Come on England

    JoElle: Had an email from my ISP. My connection will be down for essential maintenance from 3.30am for 1 hour. Gonna miss everything!

  280. Aus 172-7

    Broad starts the day on 299 Test wickets. Three slips. Australia away with an edge through the vacant third-man area. Lead growing...

  281. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Carl Brown: No need for nerves today. Cook is mentally a lot stronger than previous Ashes series & with Bell at home, we'll chase anything

    Simon Cotton: ‏England so close. Anyone else still nervous?!

    Harun Mohamed: If I was Cook, I would tell whoever is going to bowl the first over "bowl a fast, straight yorker at the wickets first ball"

  282. Post update

    England players come out of the pavilion on day three

    Another similarity to 10 years ago is that Edgbaston is jam-packed, even though there might only be a very small amount of play.

    Already the song of "Eng-ger-land" has begun. Stuart Broad has the ball, Peter Nevill on strike.

    We're a bit late starting...

  283. Post update

    Peter Nevill and Mitchell Starc

    Are you following in the office, ready for an end-of-the-week celebration? Maybe from the beach? Enjoying the start of the school holidays? It feels like a moment the whole of the UK is invested in.

    Jerusalem plays at a sun-soaked Edgbaston, even the umpires are given the biggest of cheers as they emerge from the pavilion.

  284. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Neil Criggie: 10 mins to go. Will this make lunch? Will it make drinks? The prosecco is on ice in the office today. Memories of 2005.

    Firthy: Aussies out this morning, early lunch, knock off 100 or so runs at a relaxed pace by tea, everyone goes home happy

    Adam Davies: Whatever England must remain patient the morning. No return to the bad habits of bowling short at the tail. Full & straight!

  285. 'Jimmy is confident of being fit for The Oval'

    England bowler Stuart Broad on Sky Sports: "It is a big loss but Jimmy [Anderson] is more positive than when he left the field yesterday. He thought he had gone in the side but got back from the scan and was confident he would be OK for The Oval. That will be a big bonus.

    "I have had a couple of scores this year. It is a lot of work in the nets, staying stiller and keeping calm. Mo will score naturally so I wanted to stay around and build a partnership. Hopefully it will prove an important one.

    "I need a battle, when the game is on the line. It was good to be able to get a partnership and allow us to apply pressure. That spell that Finny bowled was awesome. We need three early wickets today. It is a big morning for us."

  286. Post update

    Thanks, Marc. It's not dissimilar to 10 years ago, is it?

    On that day, England, expecting victory, needed two wickets. We know what happened next - put through the wringer on the most agonising, tension-filled, dramatic morning of Test cricket in living memory.

    Same again today?

  287. Post update

    Right then. Those butterflies in the stomach are fluttering towards a crescendo. It's time to play. Here's Stephan Shemilt to guide you through.

  288. 'Hopefully the tail will wag'

    Australia bowler Mitchell Johnson on Test Match Special: "We have definitely been below par and it is something we need to look at. It was doing a bit early on day one and then throughout but we didn't dig in. We need the tail to wag and put on a partnership. This is what me and Nev were taking about.

    "I think we need to take it a little step at a time. I would love these two to put on a 100 partnership. Them being a bowler down helps us as well."

  289. Consistently inconsistent

    Ashes
  290. Nervous Poms

  291. 'Mixed emotions'

    BBC Radio Test Match Special

    Warwickshire chief executive Colin Povey: "We are heavily sold, for Saturday in particular. So there are mixed emotions. But it is good to have a Test here and two days is better than none. England are on top in the game and this is important to us.

    "We would have liked a full five days but we are insured so we are covered from a financial point of view. The most disappointing thing is the 24,500 people who would come tomorrow won't get to experience any play.

    "If people look at the back of their ticket they will see the full refund policy and we will have instructions on our website quickly after play has finished."

  292. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    John Kirby: Replacement for Anderson? Pick the most in form 4 day bowler in the country, Matt Coles.

    Fenners: A leftfield selection for TB: Assuming we go 2-1 up, ask for a turning pitch & play Rashid. Would then bat down to Broad at 10.

    Carl Brown: Don't think Woakes would fit in to this team even if he can bat a bit - possibly give a fresh Liam Plunkett a run at Trent Bridge.

  293. Post update

    Glenn McGrath

    Ex-Australia seamer on BBC Test Match Special

    "I would say to those 24,500 people who have tickets for Saturday, not to get rid of your tickets just yet. If Australia can get above a 100-150 lead they have a chance. Stranger things have happened."

  294. Listen to TMS abroad

    Want to listen abroad today? Well, in certain territories, you can - rights restrictions permitting.

    Just follow this external link.

  295. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Paul Mason: Personally I wouldn't pick Wood for Trent Bridge, traditionally a swing pitch. We need someone who can make the ball move more regularly. Rushworth is having an awesome season. He'd be my man.

  296. Gritty Nevill

    Peter Nevill is the only batsman in this game to last more than 100 balls. He's holding the Aussies together. But only just.

    Back home, he averages 44 in first-class cricket and has a best of 235 which was scored in February.

  297. Patient Peter

  298. Post update

    Chris Woakes

    I think England will bring back Chris Woakes at Trent Bridge. Solid, reliable swing bowler. And can bat a bit.

    Then again, I've been banging the Alex Hales drum for 18 months and he's not likely to play in the next game.

  299. Post update

    Vic Marks

    Ex-England spinner on BBC Test Match Special

    "Anderson has got a fantastic record at Trent Bridge. And the ball tends to swing there. But that is the way sport goes. Injuries happen. It is almost as big a thing England losing Anderson as Australia losing McGrath in 2005. But first they need to wrap things up here."

  300. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Josh Roberts: Must be the only fan not concerned that Jimmy is out. Broad, Finn, Wood & Stokes are a more than capable seam attack

    Horatio McSherry: England fans never believe we've won til the highlights have finished. Shouldn't worry re Jimmy. Now no dilemma over Wood v Finn

    Chris Adams: Anderson and Wood's absences at Trent Bridge might be good opp for David Willey to bring his ODI form vs NZ to the Ashes

  301. Post update

    Michael Vaughan

    Ex-England captain on BBC Test Match Special

    "Nevill showed last night the style of play you would expect on a pitch that is doing a bit. Australia handed the initiative to England with their first innings. The conditions have been perfect for the style of bowlers England have."

  302. The spirit of Ashton Agar

    Ashton Agar in the 2013 Ashes series

    Speaking at the close last night, David Warner urged Australia to remember Ashton Agar's incredible knock at Trent Bridge in 2013. He got 98 batting at number 11.

    And the highest Test scores of the remaining Aussies England have to skittle?

    Nevill 45, Starc 99, Hazlewood 39, Lyon 40 not out.

    No mugs these lads.

  303. Get Involved

  304. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    "The prospect of a very short day has not put off the thousands of fans striding towards the ground. The consensus among those we spoke to was that they would be happy to see only half an hour of cricket - as long as they are there to witness a famous England Ashes win."

  305. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Damnyoureyes: Why release the Jimmy news just before play? Do the team not have an PR person or psychologists in the camp?

    Alex Withington: Psychologically was it really a good time to break the Anderson news, on the morning we're looking to knock the Aussies out?

  306. Dad's Army under fire

    Dad's Army

    The press down under believes Father Time is catching up with the Australian team. Writing in the Sydney Morning Herald, Chris Barrett said: "Jason Gillespie was only half serious when, in the lead-up to this Ashes series, he branded the Australians as 'Dad's Army'. As it turns out, though, in the modern English lingo, the former Test quick and Yorkshire coach had it bang on.

    "After three matches gone are thirtysomethings Ryan Harris, Shane Watson and Brad Haddin and as a result of the continuing middle-order woes at Edgbaston so will be Adam Voges.

    "Michael Clarke, looking every bit his 34 years, surely won't be culled just yet owing to his captaincy and a lack of alternatives but his days now must be numbered. A series for which Australia held such high expectations could, on Thursday's evidence, go right off the rails. Chris Rogers, the oldest member of the squad, has been the exception."

  307. Jimmy's out

  308. How's stat?!

    Michael Clarke
  309. 'Anything over 100 gives us a chance'

    Australia batsman David Warner on Sky Sports: "We need to come out with positive intent and try to score. We have Nevill out there and we know what Starc is capable of. We are hopeful. Anything over 100 gives us an opportunity with our bowlers.

    "Overall, the batters would like more runs. We are well under par. We have to try and build a good total on good wickets like this. Credit to England's bowlers. Good balls were getting the top order out.

    "I always knew Steven Finn was a bowler who can surprise you at any time. Five out six balls were in the right area and he was rewarded for that."

  310. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Andy Donley: Anderson's injury is a big loss but least the selectors won't have to choose between Finn and Wood now, get them both in!

    Joe Robert Troughton: Stop mithering: England will win today, no problem. Wounding news about Jimmy, though. Will give Aus a massive lift.

  311. Big blow for England

    Dreadful news for England and James Anderson. Their talisman, who set up this game on the opening day, is out of this Test and the one which follows. The Burnley Express has 10 wickets in the series so far - and his favourite Test venue is Trent Bridge where the next duel will be held. He has more wickets there than at any other ground, Lord's apart (53).

  312. BreakingBreaking news

    Anderson out

    James Anderson

    England bowler James Anderson has been ruled out of remainder of the Test with a side strain.

    Anderson will also be unavailable for the fourth Test beginning on Thursday 6 August at Trent Bridge and his availability for the final Test in the series will be determined in due course.

  313. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Jay Challenger: Aussies out before lunch, game won before tea, full weekend to celebrate? Sounds like a plan.

    Andy Perry: Of course we're worried about losing from a winning position, we're English, it's what we do. Won't be happy till it's all over.

    Howard Horner: What's with all the negativity and nightmares? England to win by lunch, Lyth lacing a drive through cover for the winning runs.

  314. Moeen's the man

    Moeen Ali

    There's a superb piece by Jonathan Liew in the Telegraph today, highlighting how Moeen Ali is England's unsung hero in this match - for the way he took apart Mitchell Johnson yesterday afternoon.

    "The pivotal period of this adorably petite match came after lunch on Thursday, when Moeen walked out to face Mitchell Johnson with England just 85 runs ahead," writes Liew.

    "Johnson bowled 14 balls to Moeen after lunch, and was hit for 24 runs. All of them came in boundaries. The best of the lot: a disdainful smack over mid-off.

    "Johnson was hauled from the attack, the cheers of "We want Mitch" from the Hollies Stand stinging in his ears. It had taken Moeen just minutes to turn the tide."

  315. Get Involved

  316. Mobile alerts

    If your phone has bleeped three times by 11:30, then you're going to have a good day. That is, of course, if you've managed to set up the wickets alert on your mobile device. All the info on that here.

    Just don't go to the library this morning!

  317. 'Finn was incredible'

    Rodney Hogg

    Rodney Hogg would have loved to bowl on this current Edgbaston track. The blonde-haired, blue-eyed former Aussie fast bowler would have done some serious damage with the new nut. He has been full of praise for England's Steve Finn, telling BBC Radio 5 Live that yesterday's five-wicket display was "incredible".

    "The kid went through a lot," said Hogg. "18 months of misery and he came back like that and, at this point in time, wins a Test Match."

    He has been less positive about his own country's performance, suggesting changes are coming...

    "I'm sure Australia will be making some changes," he added. "The batting was woeful yesterday. The order will change. I'd say Smith will go down to four and Clarke will go down to five. Either Marsh or Watson will come in at three.

    "They won't panic too much but they'll be shocked at how they've performed in this game."

  318. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Jarleth Eaton: England are a bowler short, and all the tail for Australia have a decent average. This could easily be 2005 Trent Bridge again.

    Darren Cook: Really nervous about today's play. Just want that victory ASAP! Please don't eek this out chaps! Come on England!

    Alastair Mumford: Dreamt Aussies beat us by 100 runs and had to listen to victory songs from green & gold army. Definite nightmare.

  319. Pint-sized Ashes

    Umpire

    How England will hope to see more of this icon today. To get you into the mood, check out our animated Pint-sized Ashes.

  320. 'Cricket has mutated'

    Lyth and Root

    If you only read one thing today (other than this live text, of course!) make sure it's Tom Fordyce's excellent feature. He asks if Test cricket has to become more exciting to survive in the current age.

    Tom wrote: "Those old-fashioned Tests had their charm. So too did silent movies, but only the silent stars complained when their time was up.

    "Cricket has mutated, just as it did when Richie Benaud ripped up the captaincy rulebook in the early 1960s, just as it did when leg-spin was born again in the 1990s.

    "Trying to fight it is like bemoaning the fact that since your best mate had kids you barely see him any more. It is not a blip but the new reality. Today's players are not at the forefront of the T20 revolution. They are its children and its disciples."

  321. Aussies get ready for their last stand

  322. Get Involved

  323. Post update

    Jonathan Agnew

    BBC Test Match Special

    "I have a really sad memory of Steven Finn on the last day of the final Ashes Test match in Sydney in January 2014 when England lost in three days.

    "Finn, who had not been picked for any of the Tests, was bowling at cones in the nets for the umpteenth day in a row looking utterly downtrodden. It has taken time, but Finn's bowling has been dismantled and put together.

    "Great credit must go to his bowling hero and mentor Angus Fraser, as well as the other coaches at Middlesex, who have helped him finally rediscover that great knack for taking wickets that was so in evidence during the first two days at Edgbaston."

    Read more of Jonathan's thoughts here.

  324. Finn's return

    Steven Finn

    Lots of praise should go to Steven Finn, however, who has gone from being deemed unselectable to virtually unplayable.

    Bowling with pace and hostility, he ripped the heart out of the Aussies. Michael Clarke and Steve Smith have been dismissed by him twice in this match.

  325. Email tms@bbc.co.uk

    Paul Wakefield: I had a nightmare last night where it was Headingley 1981 in reverse. Australia 7 wickets down, set a target for England of 130 and Johnson does a Willis. Gulp!

  326. 'Pathetic Australia'

    Australia

    So, how have we got to this? Poor batting? Excellent bowling? Geoffrey Boycott believes it's the former.

    "Australia are novices at playing the moving ball," Boycott said on BBC Test Match Special. "It was an embarrassing day for them. Their batting was as pathetic as it was in the first innings."

  327. Weather forecast

    BBC Weather's Alex Deakin: "A chilly morning again but no problems with the weather today, it'll be dry with plenty of sunshine, a bit more cloud by the afternoon when things will warm up to highs of 20C.

    "Weather looks decent for the weekend too, just in case you have other plans!"

  328. Back pages

    The football season might be around the corner, but the back pages of the morning papers continue to be dominated by the Ashes. And rightly so. Here's The Sun's effort - highlighting the brilliance of Steven Finn but acknowledging the severe blow England suffered when James Anderson left the field injured.

    The Sun
  329. Post update

    Sam Sheringham

    BBC Sport at Edgbaston

    "Not a cloud in the sky for England's victory procession, but how long will it take? And will there be a few bumps along the way? Last night, one or two of the more pessimistic journalists were predicting a nervy run chase. One even cited the Trent Bridge Test of 2005, when England stumbled badly chasing just 129 and needed Matthew Hoggard and Ashley Giles to guide them home. My own feeling? England to chase down about 80 for the loss of two wickets, with Joe Root scoring the winning runs. At 14:18 BST."

  330. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    Ian Crook: England to roll the Aussies over or they set a target of 100 and England struggle to 101-8?

  331. 2005 all over again?

    Andrew Flintoff

    Of course, Edgbaston has history. Ten years ago, almost to the day, Australia went into the fourth day of an Ashes Test needing just over 100 runs to win with two wickets in hand.

    The rest is history. Some say it was the greatest Test of all time as Australia got to within three runs of victory before Steve Harmison somehow got rid of Michael Kasprowicz.

    Could your nerves stomach a repeat today?

  332. What could happen?

    Edgbaston

    Let's get the worse case scenario out of the way first. Australia, who currently have Peter Nevill and Mitchell Starc at the crease, somehow manage to eke out another 100 or so runs. Then they unleash Mitchell Johnson.

    Best-case scenario? Got to be a Steven Finn hat-trick in the first over of the day and Alastair Cook knocks off the winning runs half an hour later.

    England fans will hope it's the latter.

  333. Join the debate at #bbccricket

    So, is there anybody out there who thinks Australia can still win? England fans... what's been the most pleasing aspect of this Test? Steven Finn's return to form?

    Get involved, y'all. You can send a tweet to #bbccricket, text us on 81111, email tms@bbc.co.uk or post to the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages.

  334. What a day!

    Mitchell Johnson

    We thought the first day was good, but the second was even better. I may be over-egging it to say it was the greatest day's cricket ever - but I ain't seen many better.

    First of all Mitchell Johnson bowled some of the most vicious bouncers ever delivered by man to stall England's first innings. Then Moeen Ali took Johnson to the cleaners. Then Steven Finn blew the Aussies away with a devastating spell of fast bowling.

    It leaves Australia with just a lead of 23 and only three wickets in hand. England can't lose this. Can they?

  335. Nearly there?

    David Warner

    It was staggering. England almost, almost beat Australia inside two days. In the heat of Ashes battle.

    Those Aussies are still hanging on though and there's still work to do. Can England finish them off early or will we be left biting our fingernails a little later?

  336. The day after the afternoon before

    Ashes

    It was the greatest day's cricket, to follow the greatest day's cricket.