Paine’s gloves via the edge. Indeed, the skipper had a big smile on his face before the ball reached him. He’s
been around long enough to know the best way to stop the symptoms of drift – a wicket. According to
CricViz, Hazlewood’s seven over shift was close to perfect with half his offerings landing in the sweet spot
of an ideal line and length. The runs stopped, Lyon’s mojo returned. The only thing missing with another
scalp.
Even so, the Australians go to bed knowing that unless history is defied almost entirely – in 2,355 Test
matches in 142 years, there have been only 10 successful chases in excess of 350 – they will be marking a
remarkable success story. Because of England’s grit, it won’t be like the eve of the 1993 Ashes retention on
this ground where the home side followed on and finished, but that won’t matter so long as they stick this
landing on Sunday. And when you see that celebration, you will know what it means to Australian cricket –
everything.