Root feels the Paine as Tim’s men retain urn

BY DEAN WILSON take that on the chin. You have to look at areas you want to get better at both in yourself and as a team.

“We’re in the position we are and we have to make the most of that.

“I have been given a fantastic opportunity to captain the Test side and will continue to work very hard at doing my best.

“That is in my control and I have to make sure I keep getting this team in the best shape to win as many games as possible.

“It is frustrating and we have to learn quickly to stop this happening. Importantly I have to look at next week.

“Every game against Australia matters. We must make sure we finish this summer strongly.”

Root was keen to stress how much character his team showed in making the Aussies work hard for the win but they get the chance to show character because they are regularly in trouble.

The day evolved from 18-2 to 197 all out for England. Smith has clearly been the main difference between the sides but it is bowlers who win you Test matches and in that department the Aussies have been truly blessed.

The final scalp fell to Josh Hazlewood following 91.3 overs of defiance, but it was Pat Cummins who was the real destroyer, taking the first four wickets.

Spinner Nathan Lyon also chipped in but Craig Overton and Jack Leach showing meanness to keep the Aussies waiting.

They lasted 14 pulsating overs together as the dream of a second miracle in the space of three Sundays threatened to become a reality.

Just when it looked like none of the Aussie bowlers could find a way through, the leg spin of Marnus Labuschagne did for Leach.

It was an inspired bowling change from skipper Tim Paine, who admitted he was living out a fantasy.

He said: “My dream as a cricketer was to come here and win the Ashes.

“I’m just happy to be a part of it. I could have been working instead so this isn’t too bad.”