Day five of first Ashes Test: Thrilling finale in store at Edgbaston

Broad stepped up deep in the evening session to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith on Monday.

Published Jun 20, 2023

Last updated Jun 20, 2023

England and Australia are poised for a thrilling conclusion to the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston after Stuart Broad rocked the tourists with two huge wickets late on day four.

Broad stepped up deep in the evening session to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith – the top two Test batters in the world rankings – and leave the tourists 107 for three chasing 281.

Despite the threat of rain on the final morning there should be enough time to avert a draw, with England hunting seven wickets and their rivals needing 174 runs to get over the line.

Memories of ‘the greatest series’ loom large

England celebrate the classic 2005 Ashes win at Edgbaston. — England celebrate the classic 2005 Ashes win at Edgbaston (Rui Vieira/PA)

What they said

Comedian and author Mark Steel attempts to paint a picture of ‘Bazball’ for the uninitiated.

Joe Root 2.0

Joe Root attempts a reverse ramp shot on the fourth morning. — Joe Root attempts a reverse ramp shot on the fourth morning (Mike Egerton/PA)

Stats corner

England target Boland

Scott Boland has had a challenging week. — Scott Boland has had a challenging week (Mike Egerton/PA)

Top five fourth-innings chases at Edgbaston

Moeen Ali's right index finger remains a cause for concern (Nick Potts/PA) — Moeen Ali’s right index finger remains a cause for concern (Nick Potts/PA)