England crumble, Australia on the brink of victory
Joe Root and his men had a disastrous day at office today as the 'Three Lions' are now on the verge of losing the first Ashes Test. The Australians dominated day four at Gabba, with David Warner and Cameron Bancroft going strong to close the day at 114-0. Australia now need just 56 more runs on the final day to seal the victory.
England crumble at Gabba
Australian bowlers piled pressure on the visitors to dismiss them for a modest score of 195. Joe Root top scored for the visitors with 51 but failed to convert it into a big innings and so was the case with Jonny Bairstow who scored 42 and Moeen Ali whose contribution was 40. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins made light work of the tail.
Warner and Bancroft Punish England
England's chances of a comeback were thwarted by Australia's opening duo, who posted a comfortable 114-0 at the end of day four. Warner and Bancroft have set a comfortable platform to ensure Australia preserve their unbeaten record at Gabba, which stretches back to 1988. Going by Australia's performance another 5-0 drubbing could be on the cards.
Moeen Ali's controversial stumping
Moeen Ali, who was going strong on 40, was controversially stumped off the bowling of Nathan Lyon. After several replays he was declared out despite it being a very close call. Benefit of doubt was not given to the batsman. This is the first time the left handed all-rounder has been stumped in international cricket.
England needs a miracle
With just 56 runs to win, England need a miracle or at the least rain to salvage something from this fixture. It is a task that looks difficult even for the number one bowler in Test cricket. Australia look like they will walk away with a convincing victory in a Test that was so closely fought for the first three days.
