Cricket: England's Ashes advantage is burnt to a cinder by red-hot Aussie attackers

Published on Saturday 8 August 2009 11:08

ENGLAND allowed a disrupted build-up to the fourth Test to undermine their Ashes advantage as Australia progressed into a commanding position on the opening day at Headingley.

Having dominated the last two Tests to secure a 1-0 lead in the npower series, England knew victory would reclaim the Ashes and emulate the triumphant scenes of four years ago. But the momentum shifted dramatically after they were dismissed for 102 – their lowest Test score at Headingley for 100 years – and allowed Australia to reach 196 for four by the close of an eventful first day.

England's dismal display followed a haphazard morning when all-rounder Andrew Flintoff was ruled out with persistent knee problems while wicketkeeper Matt Prior almost joined him on the casualty list after suffering a back spasm and needed a late fitness test to retain his place.

The early drama clearly affected England, who decided to stick with a five-man bowling attack despite Flintoff's absence, a gamble which backfired badly with Stuart Clark claiming three for 18 in his first Test for nine months and Peter Siddle recording career-best figures of five for 21.

Australia wreaked havoc and ensured only two players – Alastair Cook and Prior – reached double figures.

Leading wicket-taker during Australia's 5-0 Ashes whitewash in 2006-7, Clark claimed three for five in 21 balls to leave England reeling on 72 for six at lunch.

In the end England fought a rearguard action to reach 102.

When Australia came to bat opener Shane Watson and Australian captain Ricky Ponting set up a 119-run stand which threatened to virtually settle the outcome of the match on the opening day.

Predictably booed all the way to the crease when he walked out to bat – particularly after the authorities urged the boisterous West Stand spectators not to do so – Ponting had responded by hitting 12 fours and a six in his superb 78 off 101 balls.