Overview
- Back-to-back eight‑wicket wins in Perth and Brisbane put Australia on the brink of retaining the urn, leaving England needing three straight victories.
- Michael Neser justified his Gabba call-up with 5-42 in England’s second innings, while Mitchell Starc claimed player of the match with a 77 from No. 9 and an eight‑wicket haul.
- Stand-in captain Steve Smith praised Australia’s ability to “adapt on the go,” highlighting flexible selection, targeted bowling plans and sharp fielding.
- Head coach Brendon McCullum said England were “over-prepared” after five intense training days and suggested changes to methods, as Ben Stokes acknowledged struggles in tight moments.
- Former players intensified criticism — Geoffrey Boycott and Ian Botham attacked tactics and preparation and Jonathan Agnew called Bazball “dead” — as selectors consider Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon for Adelaide.