Today was a record breaking day for the Ashes history books. Alastair Cook and Jonathan Trott produced an outstanding stand of 329 runs to secure a contented draw for England. Cook scored a double century and Trott managed his
second century against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746. This was a rare moment when England’s top three scored Ashes tons, before the decision to declare was taken. The final score was 517 runs for the loss of 1 wicket which left 41 overs for the Aussies to bat.
The chance for a result was never on the cards with England 296 runs in the front. But both teams were eager to secure a psychological edge before the encounter at Adelaide. This was the time when Australia came into bat after
long sessions of fielding. Stuart Broad, wicketless in the first innings, struck early, dismissing Simon Katich. However, Ricky Ponting put two days of fielding behind him to score a brilliant half century. He and Shane http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Watson-c96326 batted throughout the last session
to lift spirits a bit. It was a hard time in the field, as they were successful in picking a single wicket only in 26 overs.
While the English players extended the partnership, it was difficult for the Aussies to challenge them. The partnership was worth 121 runs overnight, which finished at 329 when they declared. On a personal footing, Cook’s 200 came
from 306 balls while Trott’s calm hundred took 213 balls.
In smudge of what Cook achieved, he also broke a record held by Don Bradman. Don had the best individual score at this ground which was surpassed by Cook this morning. Trott on the other hand, continued his sublime form, following
his debut ton at the Oval last year.
The partnership also broke records for England playing in Australia. This stand dismantled the partnership of Hussey and Haddin as well. The two batsmen finished with the highest scoring innings for the loss of a single wicket.
For the English fans, which outnumbered their counterparts, this was a dream Ashes performance.
The Australian batting seemed to be a mere practice for the next match. The quick English bowlers tried to pepper their opponents with short pitch deliveries so as to create interest. At the start of the final hour Strauss approached
his counterpart and the two shook on a draw. But this is not the end. The drama will resume on Friday in the second test at Adelaide.
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