POMS MAKE FIGHT OF IT

Late twist as Aussies stumble in the dark

ENGLAND’S dramatic late fightback became the stuff of nightmares for Steve Smith at Adelaide Oval last night.

Joe Root’s men spent much of yesterday facing another summer of humiliation after Australia’s bowlers systematically shredded their dreams.

While Australia is still in the box seat with a 268-run lead and six wickets in had, Smith’s controversial call not to enforce the follow-on gave birth to a thrilling twist.

TEST legend Shane Warne has questioned skipper Steve Smith’s decision to not enforce the follow on as brazen Australia let England back into the Ashes under lights on the third night in Adelaide.

Australia chewed up England in a paltry first innings 227 in 76 overs but didn’t enforce the follow on despite leading by 215 and having the advantage of finishing off the hapless tourists under lights.

Australian keeper Wally Grout was famous for saying “never give a sucker an even break” but Smith gave his bowlers a rest, perhaps with an eye to a gruelling five-match schedule in six weeks.

Australia lost Cam Bancroft (4), Usman Khawaja (14) and David Warner (20) then Smith (6) to finish 4/53 at stumps with a lead of 268.

Jimmy Anderson (2-16) and Chris Woakes (2-13) sprang to life in the cool, swing friendly conditions that they thrive in back across the Old Dart. Stuart Broad also applied the pace and pressure England has missed.

Having had England’s measure taking 4-60, Nathan Lyon (3) was sent in as nightwatchman to survive until stumps with Peter Handscomb (3)

“England’s chests are out and why wouldn’t they be with Australia 4/53. It’s hard not to talk about the follow on with the ball swinging around under lights,” said Warne on Channel Nine. “I think it was the perfect opportunity to enforce the follow on with England batting under lights with the pink ball.”