International sports, cricket: Broad smiles as Aussies collapse

The Oval, London, England (GenevaLunch) – England were in control at the end of an incredible second day of the final Test of the Ashes series in which 15 wickets fell. They started the day on 307  for 8 and extended the score to 332, which looked a little below par at the time. Australia then made a solid start, reaching a somewhat fortunate 61 without loss despite the deteriorating wicket, which is being criticized in the Australian media.

After lunch Stuart Broad struck with four quick wickets, including the Australian captain Ricky Ponting. At the other end Graeme Swann took advantage of the bare patches to tie the Australian batsmen in knots and take 4 wickets with the aid of some dubious umpiring decisions. It was 133 for 8 at tea.

Andrew Flintoff ended the Australian innings at 160 all out when he bowled Ben Hilfenhaus for his only wicket of the day. Broad had figures of 5 for 37 and is looking well on the way to replacing Flintoff as the leading all-rounder of the team.

England resumed with a lead of 172 but lost Alistair Cook, Ian Bell and Paul Collingwood to finish the day at 53 for 3, a lead of 230 which is worth much more than normal as the wicket crumbles.

Details: The Guardian