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Live - Australia v England | Live - Australia v England |
(10 minutes later) | |
Alastair Cook scored his first Ashes century but was out for 116 and then Matthew Hoggard went for a duck as England's grip on the Ashes slipped. | |
England reached 261-5, Glenn McGrath taking a double wicket maiden, with less than three overs to go on day four, set an improbable 557 to win. | |
England had put on 170 runs for the second wicket, Ian Bell making 87 before he fell just before tea. | |
But Australia hit back, taking three wickets in the final session. | |
LATEST ACTION (all times local to Perth - GMT+9) | LATEST ACTION (all times local to Perth - GMT+9) |
By Jonathan Stevenson | By Jonathan Stevenson |
ENGLAND SECOND INNINGS | ENGLAND SECOND INNINGS |
CLOSE OF PLAY | |
1847: England 265-5 A nail-biting spell ends with four singles off McGrath's last over, and thank goodness no ridiculous appealing from the great fast bowler. Pietersen's not short of a word or two for the Aussies. Has he got something monumental in mind for tomorrow? If he hasn't, Australia will regain the Ashes. | |
1842: England 261-5 I usually really like Warney. He's a top bowler, the best, maybe even in the whole great history of the game. But his exessive appealing today has been a disgrace to cricket and if he isn't fined the sport needs to have a very long look at itself. Another woeful appeal is rightly turned down by Rudi Koertzen, who has had a brilliant decision-making day. For a change. | |
"I closed my internet for one second by accident and we lose a wicket, it's all my fault! I'm sorry. Kill me please, someone kill me."Ed, via TMS inbox | |
1835: WICKET England 261-5 (Hoggard 0) Disaster for England and Matthew Hoggard lasts just two balls as Glenn McGrath gets a full ball through his defences to give the Australians a near-perfect end to the day. You've got to wonder why Hoggard was out there - should England have used a nightwatchman and if so, why the hell is it Hoggard? It's not 2004. Andrew Flintoff walks to the crease for the most important innings of his England captaincy. | 1835: WICKET England 261-5 (Hoggard 0) Disaster for England and Matthew Hoggard lasts just two balls as Glenn McGrath gets a full ball through his defences to give the Australians a near-perfect end to the day. You've got to wonder why Hoggard was out there - should England have used a nightwatchman and if so, why the hell is it Hoggard? It's not 2004. Andrew Flintoff walks to the crease for the most important innings of his England captaincy. |
1832: WICKET England 261-4 (Cook 116) A devastating blow for England's hopes of saving the Test match and the Ashes as Alastair Cook's magnificent vigil comes to an end. It's a tired prod at Glenn McGrath which proves his undoing, the fast bowler switching to around the wicket to take the outside edge and Adam Gilchrist does the rest. Hold your head up high Cookie, you are the future of the English batting line-up. Matthew Hoggard walks to the crease as nightwatchman. | 1832: WICKET England 261-4 (Cook 116) A devastating blow for England's hopes of saving the Test match and the Ashes as Alastair Cook's magnificent vigil comes to an end. It's a tired prod at Glenn McGrath which proves his undoing, the fast bowler switching to around the wicket to take the outside edge and Adam Gilchrist does the rest. Hold your head up high Cookie, you are the future of the English batting line-up. Matthew Hoggard walks to the crease as nightwatchman. |
"I feel like I am in the denist's waiting room as I nervously watch the overs tick by, come on stumps!"James, via text | "I feel like I am in the denist's waiting room as I nervously watch the overs tick by, come on stumps!"James, via text |
1830: England 261-3 Cook clips Warne off his pads and the Barmy Army are in raptures as it brings up the master leg-spinner's century. 30-3-100-1 are the great man's figures. They don't exactly compare to our Monty's, but there's another day yet. | 1830: England 261-3 Cook clips Warne off his pads and the Barmy Army are in raptures as it brings up the master leg-spinner's century. 30-3-100-1 are the great man's figures. They don't exactly compare to our Monty's, but there's another day yet. |
1825: England 260-3 KP gets a nerve-jangling inside edge to McGrath and gets a lucky couple. Not now Kev, not now. We've all been awake for far too long to throw it all away now. I'm on the fifth floor of a building, don't make me jump. The last ball is another loose drive that falls just short of Hayden at gully. What did I just say? | 1825: England 260-3 KP gets a nerve-jangling inside edge to McGrath and gets a lucky couple. Not now Kev, not now. We've all been awake for far too long to throw it all away now. I'm on the fifth floor of a building, don't make me jump. The last ball is another loose drive that falls just short of Hayden at gully. What did I just say? |
1818: England 258-3 Kevin Pietersen stands tall and fairly hammers a wide and full Brett Lee ball through the covers for four glorious runs. He then clips one off his hips for a couple behind square on the leg side, effortlessly moving on to 33. | 1818: England 258-3 Kevin Pietersen stands tall and fairly hammers a wide and full Brett Lee ball through the covers for four glorious runs. He then clips one off his hips for a couple behind square on the leg side, effortlessly moving on to 33. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "The cricket is keeping me awake, keep refreshing my screen every minute as the radio is broke! Will someone buy me a new one? Come on England!"Matt, via TMS inbox | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "The cricket is keeping me awake, keep refreshing my screen every minute as the radio is broke! Will someone buy me a new one? Come on England!"Matt, via TMS inbox |
1814: England 251-3 Glenn McGrath gets his first go with the new cherry and he is welcomed brutally to the crease by Alastair Cook who cuts him viciously to the ropes for four behind square. Impudent from the 21-year-old, who earlier became the first England batsman ever to score four Test hundreds before his 22nd birthday. Legend. | 1814: England 251-3 Glenn McGrath gets his first go with the new cherry and he is welcomed brutally to the crease by Alastair Cook who cuts him viciously to the ropes for four behind square. Impudent from the 21-year-old, who earlier became the first England batsman ever to score four Test hundreds before his 22nd birthday. Legend. |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
How to listen to TMS "Is this the Dunkirk spirit? In the face of adversity we play our best. This is responsible teamwork, just stay there still stumps lads and we're in for a cracker tomorrow!"Mark, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Is this the Dunkirk spirit? In the face of adversity we play our best. This is responsible teamwork, just stay there still stumps lads and we're in for a cracker tomorrow!"Mark, via TMS inbox |
"At this stage, all Australia want is a wicket to try and get Andrew Flintoff in. No matter how long he's in for, they will just want him in today. If the quicks don't work, get Warne back on with the new ball. Don't waste time."Geoff Boycott on TMS | "At this stage, all Australia want is a wicket to try and get Andrew Flintoff in. No matter how long he's in for, they will just want him in today. If the quicks don't work, get Warne back on with the new ball. Don't waste time."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
1805: England 244-3 Clark gets one past Pietersen's outside edge with nothing more than good line and length, which is exactly what it would say on the Stuart Clark tin if you could buy it in the supermarket. "Stuart Clark - line & length". Sorry, I'm tired. KP streakily takes four through the gully area. Go KP. | 1805: England 244-3 Clark gets one past Pietersen's outside edge with nothing more than good line and length, which is exactly what it would say on the Stuart Clark tin if you could buy it in the supermarket. "Stuart Clark - line & length". Sorry, I'm tired. KP streakily takes four through the gully area. Go KP. |
1801: England 240-3 Cook takes three with a lovely shot off his pads off Lee's bowling, the blond quickie increasingly looking for a special ball like a yorker to get the breakthrough with the ball not swinging around. The short ball is helped to deep backward square leg for a couple more. | 1801: England 240-3 Cook takes three with a lovely shot off his pads off Lee's bowling, the blond quickie increasingly looking for a special ball like a yorker to get the breakthrough with the ball not swinging around. The short ball is helped to deep backward square leg for a couple more. |
"Warne's extensive appealing may be set to earn him a fine from the match referee. I say may, though, not definitely."Christopher Martin-Jenkins on TMS | "Warne's extensive appealing may be set to earn him a fine from the match referee. I say may, though, not definitely."Christopher Martin-Jenkins on TMS |
1757: England 234-3 KP is showing great focus here and plays each Clark ball on his merits, taking two through the covers with an effortless shunt. The new ball isn't moving at all and England have 10 overs left today. | 1757: England 234-3 KP is showing great focus here and plays each Clark ball on his merits, taking two through the covers with an effortless shunt. The new ball isn't moving at all and England have 10 overs left today. |
1753: England 232-3 Lee comes back into the attack and goes up for an LBW on Cook immediately, once again Rudi Koertzen not having any of it. The umpire has turned everything down today having poorly sent Andrew Strauss on his way late doors yesterday, thank heaven. | 1753: England 232-3 Lee comes back into the attack and goes up for an LBW on Cook immediately, once again Rudi Koertzen not having any of it. The umpire has turned everything down today having poorly sent Andrew Strauss on his way late doors yesterday, thank heaven. |
1747: England 230-3 Australia take the new ball, but not much movement there for Stuart Clark. Brett Lee to come on for Warney at the other end. | 1747: England 230-3 Australia take the new ball, but not much movement there for Stuart Clark. Brett Lee to come on for Warney at the other end. |
Let's Stay Positive: In May 2003, West Indies were set a Test match world record of 418 to beat Steve Waugh's Australian "unbeatables". Thanks to hundreds from Ramnaresh Sarwan and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, they won by three wickets to stun the cricket world. | Let's Stay Positive: In May 2003, West Indies were set a Test match world record of 418 to beat Steve Waugh's Australian "unbeatables". Thanks to hundreds from Ramnaresh Sarwan and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, they won by three wickets to stun the cricket world. |
1742: England 230-3 A couple of pretty nothingy overs from Symonds and Warne, there are 13 overs left in the day so well done Australia for bowling their overs at the required rate, easily a first in this Test match. I need a wicket-less 50 minutes and 17 hours of umblemished sleep to prepare for tomorrow. | 1742: England 230-3 A couple of pretty nothingy overs from Symonds and Warne, there are 13 overs left in the day so well done Australia for bowling their overs at the required rate, easily a first in this Test match. I need a wicket-less 50 minutes and 17 hours of umblemished sleep to prepare for tomorrow. |
"I don't think we'll be seeing the sweep shot from Mr Pietersen just yet anyway, not to Warne. Though he didn't think there was anything wrong with his dismissal in the last Test when he was asked at the news conference."Jonathan Agnew on TMS | "I don't think we'll be seeing the sweep shot from Mr Pietersen just yet anyway, not to Warne. Though he didn't think there was anything wrong with his dismissal in the last Test when he was asked at the news conference."Jonathan Agnew on TMS |
1737: England 227-3 Alastair Cook completes a quite magnificent century in the Waca and rightly so the 21-year-old receives a standing ovation from the capacity crowd. He doesn't make it easy, nearly being caught and bowled off Warne, but eventually turns the ball into the leg side and runs with his arms aloft to savour the moment. You've made us all proud, Cookie. | 1737: England 227-3 Alastair Cook completes a quite magnificent century in the Waca and rightly so the 21-year-old receives a standing ovation from the capacity crowd. He doesn't make it easy, nearly being caught and bowled off Warne, but eventually turns the ball into the leg side and runs with his arms aloft to savour the moment. You've made us all proud, Cookie. |
"I can't wait for Cook to get his hundred... I'm going to feel such ecstasy and excitement, it'll be like the time I discovered Jaffa Cakes."Rajat, via TMS inbox | "I can't wait for Cook to get his hundred... I'm going to feel such ecstasy and excitement, it'll be like the time I discovered Jaffa Cakes."Rajat, via TMS inbox |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "If England win this Test match, I will eat a kilo of brussel sprouts - raw."Martin via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "If England win this Test match, I will eat a kilo of brussel sprouts - raw."Martin via text |
1730: England 225-3 Cook nudges Symonds into the leg side for two more and then takes another risky single to Michael Clarke to move onto 99. Agonisingly, excrutiatingly, there will be a short drinks break. Can you bear the tension? | 1730: England 225-3 Cook nudges Symonds into the leg side for two more and then takes another risky single to Michael Clarke to move onto 99. Agonisingly, excrutiatingly, there will be a short drinks break. Can you bear the tension? |
1727: England 223-3 Great stuff from young Cook. He chops Warne into the leg side for two and then drives confidently for three more into the covers to move onto 96. A day ago, Adam Gilchrist was going mental and the Ashes seemed gone. No further comment. | 1727: England 223-3 Great stuff from young Cook. He chops Warne into the leg side for two and then drives confidently for three more into the covers to move onto 96. A day ago, Adam Gilchrist was going mental and the Ashes seemed gone. No further comment. |
How to listen to TMS "I'm Australian and have one thing to say - C'mon England!"Peter, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "I'm Australian and have one thing to say - C'mon England!"Peter, via TMS inbox |
1722: England 218-3 Symonds sends one wildly wide down leg side and concedes four wides in the process, while Cook continues his tortured progress by missing two attempted cuts but grabbing a single of his legs. | 1722: England 218-3 Symonds sends one wildly wide down leg side and concedes four wides in the process, while Cook continues his tortured progress by missing two attempted cuts but grabbing a single of his legs. |
1719: England 209-3 Cook plays a false shot off Warne, edging one just past Matthew Hayden at slip to get a couple and move into the nervous 90s. Don't worry, I won't even think about mentioning what might happen in the next few overs. No way, Jose. | 1719: England 209-3 Cook plays a false shot off Warne, edging one just past Matthew Hayden at slip to get a couple and move into the nervous 90s. Don't worry, I won't even think about mentioning what might happen in the next few overs. No way, Jose. |
1715: England 207-3 Symonds comes on from the other end and bowls a tidy maiden, with KP showing no signs of being frustrated by his lack of activity. | 1715: England 207-3 Symonds comes on from the other end and bowls a tidy maiden, with KP showing no signs of being frustrated by his lack of activity. |
1712: England 207-3 A much calmer Shane Warne is back on, though he manages a half-jump into the air as the ball strikes Alastair Cook somewhere on the pads. Could do without the histrionics from the last session quite honestly. | 1712: England 207-3 A much calmer Shane Warne is back on, though he manages a half-jump into the air as the ball strikes Alastair Cook somewhere on the pads. Could do without the histrionics from the last session quite honestly. |
1708: England 207-3 A watchful Kevin Pietersen plays a largely circumspect over against Clark, expect for one thumping pull shot through mid-wicket for four after the bowler had the temerity to drop a fraction shot. | 1708: England 207-3 A watchful Kevin Pietersen plays a largely circumspect over against Clark, expect for one thumping pull shot through mid-wicket for four after the bowler had the temerity to drop a fraction shot. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "I'm truly heartbroken. It's almost 3am in Boston and Collingwood was my only motivation for staying awake. I'm off to go cry myself to sleep. Good luck England."Gina, via TMS inbox | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "I'm truly heartbroken. It's almost 3am in Boston and Collingwood was my only motivation for staying awake. I'm off to go cry myself to sleep. Good luck England."Gina, via TMS inbox |
1703: England 203-3 Cook seems keen not to show his tiredness and takes a quick single off Symonds, before KP cuts him away for a couple to third man. KP then drives fabulously straight down the ground for a four that will probably encourage Ricky Ponting to put Warne back on. | 1703: England 203-3 Cook seems keen not to show his tiredness and takes a quick single off Symonds, before KP cuts him away for a couple to third man. KP then drives fabulously straight down the ground for a four that will probably encourage Ricky Ponting to put Warne back on. |
How to listen to TMS "Rita - I'm sure I heard that kettle boiling again!! Just leave it out will you??"David, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Rita - I'm sure I heard that kettle boiling again!! Just leave it out will you??"David, via TMS inbox |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
1700: England 195-3 Yet another close call on a run out, this time Pietersen. "Cook needs to stop the game and have a word with his new partner," says TMS's Geoff Lawson. Damn right he should, I've no interest in imploding just yet, Geoff. Last ball is an attempted bouncer that runs away down the leg side for four byes. | 1700: England 195-3 Yet another close call on a run out, this time Pietersen. "Cook needs to stop the game and have a word with his new partner," says TMS's Geoff Lawson. Damn right he should, I've no interest in imploding just yet, Geoff. Last ball is an attempted bouncer that runs away down the leg side for four byes. |
1656: England 189-3 Cook takes on the arm of Michael Clarke and only just makes his crease to get home for two, though Aleem Dar needs the third umpire to make the decision. If there's a run out now, I might just implode. | 1656: England 189-3 Cook takes on the arm of Michael Clarke and only just makes his crease to get home for two, though Aleem Dar needs the third umpire to make the decision. If there's a run out now, I might just implode. |
1652: England 186-3 Kevin Pietersen gets off the mark with a push to mid-off and a quick single, taking on the arm of Andrew Symonds and getting away with it. | 1652: England 186-3 Kevin Pietersen gets off the mark with a push to mid-off and a quick single, taking on the arm of Andrew Symonds and getting away with it. |
1648: WICKET England 185-3 (Collingwood 5) Oh dear me. Paul Collingwood fails for the second time in Perth, tentatively pushing forward at a standard Stuart Clark delivery that just moves away a fraction and Adam Gilchrist makes no mistake behind the stumps. England really are drinking in the last-chance saloon now. | 1648: WICKET England 185-3 (Collingwood 5) Oh dear me. Paul Collingwood fails for the second time in Perth, tentatively pushing forward at a standard Stuart Clark delivery that just moves away a fraction and Adam Gilchrist makes no mistake behind the stumps. England really are drinking in the last-chance saloon now. |
1646: England 185-2 Cook is deceived by one that turns surprisingly out of the rough from Symonds, gripping and bouncing and beating the outside edge. Symonds is bowling the same sort of stuff Pietersen did in the Australian second innings. | 1646: England 185-2 Cook is deceived by one that turns surprisingly out of the rough from Symonds, gripping and bouncing and beating the outside edge. Symonds is bowling the same sort of stuff Pietersen did in the Australian second innings. |
1644: England 184-2 Clark sneaks one past Cook's outside edge, a tired shot from a 21-year-old who must be feeling the intense heat in Perth. Thank goodness the Fremantle Doctor is still playing a part in proceedings. | 1644: England 184-2 Clark sneaks one past Cook's outside edge, a tired shot from a 21-year-old who must be feeling the intense heat in Perth. Thank goodness the Fremantle Doctor is still playing a part in proceedings. |
"I think I got flu as a result of listening all night to the previous Tests, but at least it has meant that I can listen to this one knowing I can stay in bed a bit in the day. I'm beginning not to be able to tell night from day."Jennifer, via TMS inbox | "I think I got flu as a result of listening all night to the previous Tests, but at least it has meant that I can listen to this one knowing I can stay in bed a bit in the day. I'm beginning not to be able to tell night from day."Jennifer, via TMS inbox |
1639: England 184-2 Nearly the end for Cook. Andrew Symonds comes on to give Warne a rest and Cook gets an edge trying to play against the spin into the leg side, the ball flying inches past Matthew Hayden at slip. | 1639: England 184-2 Nearly the end for Cook. Andrew Symonds comes on to give Warne a rest and Cook gets an edge trying to play against the spin into the leg side, the ball flying inches past Matthew Hayden at slip. |
1635: England 183-2 Cook times Stuart Clark down the ground for three, the boundary only prevented by, yep, you guessed it, another brilliant run, chase and pull back from the peerless (in the field, anyway) Andrew Symonds. | 1635: England 183-2 Cook times Stuart Clark down the ground for three, the boundary only prevented by, yep, you guessed it, another brilliant run, chase and pull back from the peerless (in the field, anyway) Andrew Symonds. |
1632: Alastair Cook and Paul Collingwood take to the field for the final session of a wonderfully absorbing day at the Waca. | 1632: Alastair Cook and Paul Collingwood take to the field for the final session of a wonderfully absorbing day at the Waca. |
How to listen to TMS "Much as I'd like to be positive, William Hill are currently offering 11/1 on an England win... puts things into perspective doesn't it? You can get shorter odds on someone with a middle name of 'Hussein' being next president of the USA."Jeremy, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Much as I'd like to be positive, William Hill are currently offering 11/1 on an England win... puts things into perspective doesn't it? You can get shorter odds on someone with a middle name of 'Hussein' being next president of the USA."Jeremy, via TMS inbox |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "English wickets only fall when I doze off. I am going out tomorrow to buy enough drugs to keep me awake until March."Steve, via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "English wickets only fall when I doze off. I am going out tomorrow to buy enough drugs to keep me awake until March."Steve, via text |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
Let's Stay Positive: In January 2004, Sri Lankan side Central Province were set 513 to win by Southern Province having been 173 all out in their first innings. They won, reaching 513-9 thanks to hundreds from Sajith Fernando and Kumar Sangakkara. | Let's Stay Positive: In January 2004, Sri Lankan side Central Province were set 513 to win by Southern Province having been 173 all out in their first innings. They won, reaching 513-9 thanks to hundreds from Sajith Fernando and Kumar Sangakkara. |
"Two really good sessions for England so far, they've at least got a lot of pride back. Australia would have thought they'd have got a lot more wickets, but only Warne's looked threatening. They need to tie up the runs from the other end too."Geoff Boycott on TMS | "Two really good sessions for England so far, they've at least got a lot of pride back. Australia would have thought they'd have got a lot more wickets, but only Warne's looked threatening. They need to tie up the runs from the other end too."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
TEA | TEA |
1611: England 180-2 I don't know why England didn't take their time with Symonds' over to make it the last before tea, but they just about survive Warne's last over of the session with just a run coming from it. Two sessions down, one wicket lost. So far today, job done. So far. But what an intriguing session coming up. | 1611: England 180-2 I don't know why England didn't take their time with Symonds' over to make it the last before tea, but they just about survive Warne's last over of the session with just a run coming from it. Two sessions down, one wicket lost. So far today, job done. So far. But what an intriguing session coming up. |
1609: England 179-2 Andrew Symonds is into the attack and he begins in familiar fashion by taking two strands of his dreadlocks and tying them together to try and hold the rest of it in place. Bizarre doesn't even begin to describe the sight. Cook reaps a single. | 1609: England 179-2 Andrew Symonds is into the attack and he begins in familiar fashion by taking two strands of his dreadlocks and tying them together to try and hold the rest of it in place. Bizarre doesn't even begin to describe the sight. Cook reaps a single. |
1605: England 178-2 Collingwood plays a nice clip off his pads into the leg side off Warne for a couple of runs and Warne is starting to look pretty knackered, truth be told. It's yet another truly special effort from the legendary leg-spinner, who is just four away from 700. | 1605: England 178-2 Collingwood plays a nice clip off his pads into the leg side off Warne for a couple of runs and Warne is starting to look pretty knackered, truth be told. It's yet another truly special effort from the legendary leg-spinner, who is just four away from 700. |
1602: England 175-2 Cook is playing for tea and dead bats a couple from Clark before helping one that slides down around the corner for a single. Hopefully, these two will be able to hang on for another eight minutes. And a couple more sessions. Or four. | 1602: England 175-2 Cook is playing for tea and dead bats a couple from Clark before helping one that slides down around the corner for a single. Hopefully, these two will be able to hang on for another eight minutes. And a couple more sessions. Or four. |
How to listen to TMS "Bell's wicket, all my fault. Honestly, I only went through to the kitchen to put the kettle on. Sorry."Rita, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Bell's wicket, all my fault. Honestly, I only went through to the kitchen to put the kettle on. Sorry."Rita, via TMS inbox |
1556: England 174-2 Too much turn again, Warney. Another rips and spits at Cook from a country mile outside the left-hander's off stump and a giant appeal is once more met with utter lifelessness by the deadpan Rudi Koertzen. | 1556: England 174-2 Too much turn again, Warney. Another rips and spits at Cook from a country mile outside the left-hander's off stump and a giant appeal is once more met with utter lifelessness by the deadpan Rudi Koertzen. |
1553: England 173-2 Collingwood gets off the mark by nurdling Clark into the leg side for a couple, presumably not running hard so he won't be facing an on-fire Warne in the next over. | 1553: England 173-2 Collingwood gets off the mark by nurdling Clark into the leg side for a couple, presumably not running hard so he won't be facing an on-fire Warne in the next over. |
"Every ball there, he pitched it three or four inches outside leg stump and Collingwood is convinced he has to play it. If you kick it away, you can't get out. My goodness me it's a thrilling thing, watching a great bowler against a new batsman."Geoff Boycott on TMS | "Every ball there, he pitched it three or four inches outside leg stump and Collingwood is convinced he has to play it. If you kick it away, you can't get out. My goodness me it's a thrilling thing, watching a great bowler against a new batsman."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
1549: England 170-2 Warne can smell blood and Paul Collingwood immediately looks uncomfortably against the genius leg-spinner, now bowling his 21st over of the innings. This is a vital partnership for England, with Kevin Pietersen next in. | 1549: England 170-2 Warne can smell blood and Paul Collingwood immediately looks uncomfortably against the genius leg-spinner, now bowling his 21st over of the innings. This is a vital partnership for England, with Kevin Pietersen next in. |
1546: England 170-2 The ludicrously under-used Stuart Clark is back on and bowls a typical maiden to Alastair Cook, who must gather his thoughts now and try and bat until tea. Clark is warned by Aleem Dar for running down the middle of the pitch. | 1546: England 170-2 The ludicrously under-used Stuart Clark is back on and bowls a typical maiden to Alastair Cook, who must gather his thoughts now and try and bat until tea. Clark is warned by Aleem Dar for running down the middle of the pitch. |
1539: WICKET England 170-2 (Bell 87) Heartbreak for Ian Bell, who really deserved a hundred. A magnificent backs-to-the-wall knock ends when he drives uppishly at Shane Warne and Justin Langer takes a good catch above his head at short extra-cover. Maybe those minds games from Warne have worked, what a shame for Bell. | 1539: WICKET England 170-2 (Bell 87) Heartbreak for Ian Bell, who really deserved a hundred. A magnificent backs-to-the-wall knock ends when he drives uppishly at Shane Warne and Justin Langer takes a good catch above his head at short extra-cover. Maybe those minds games from Warne have worked, what a shame for Bell. |
Oops, almost forgot about Monty in the excitement. Has anyone in England not got their very own mask yet? DOWNLOAD A CRICKET MASK AND LOOK LIKE MONTY PANESAR | Oops, almost forgot about Monty in the excitement. Has anyone in England not got their very own mask yet? DOWNLOAD A CRICKET MASK AND LOOK LIKE MONTY PANESAR |
"I am always available if you need another one."Pritam Singh Panesar, via TMS inbox | "I am always available if you need another one."Pritam Singh Panesar, via TMS inbox |
1531: England 164-1 Something is happening every ball with Warne. Bell plays a gorgeous shot through mid-wicket for four and then the bowler goes up for another massive appeal against Cook, with the ball clearly going over the stumps. He looks devastated at Rudi Koertzen's decision, not happy at all. Give it a rest Warney, will ya? | 1531: England 164-1 Something is happening every ball with Warne. Bell plays a gorgeous shot through mid-wicket for four and then the bowler goes up for another massive appeal against Cook, with the ball clearly going over the stumps. He looks devastated at Rudi Koertzen's decision, not happy at all. Give it a rest Warney, will ya? |
1528: England 158-1 A much calmer over all-round, as Cook carves Lee away for four in the only incident of any real note. | 1528: England 158-1 A much calmer over all-round, as Cook carves Lee away for four in the only incident of any real note. |
How to listen to TMS "D Fletcher, to A Flintoff: "Look, Freddie, we're safe now... here comes the Titanic!"Nigel, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "D Fletcher, to A Flintoff: "Look, Freddie, we're safe now... here comes the Titanic!"Nigel, via TMS inbox |
1524: England 154-1 It's all happening now. I don't like the word cheat, but it's hard to take this from Australia. Warne has decided to appeal vehemently from just about every ball, and it leaves a sour taste. One hits Cook's pad, missing his bat by a foot and the whole Australia team goes up for a pointless pad-bat appeal. Then Warne appeals with the ball hitting Cook's pad two feet outside off stump, the ball not going on to hit anyway. In-between, Cook slaps him through mid-wicket for four. Warney, you don't need to do this mate. You really don't. | 1524: England 154-1 It's all happening now. I don't like the word cheat, but it's hard to take this from Australia. Warne has decided to appeal vehemently from just about every ball, and it leaves a sour taste. One hits Cook's pad, missing his bat by a foot and the whole Australia team goes up for a pointless pad-bat appeal. Then Warne appeals with the ball hitting Cook's pad two feet outside off stump, the ball not going on to hit anyway. In-between, Cook slaps him through mid-wicket for four. Warney, you don't need to do this mate. You really don't. |
1520: England 149-1 Phew! First real chance is put down by Australia, by Adam Gilchrist behind the stumps. Bell gets an edge to a full Lee ball and Gilly dives to his right and gets a hand to it but can only deflect it away for three valuable runs. Lee can't believe it, the crowd can't believe it, I can't believe it. | 1520: England 149-1 Phew! First real chance is put down by Australia, by Adam Gilchrist behind the stumps. Bell gets an edge to a full Lee ball and Gilly dives to his right and gets a hand to it but can only deflect it away for three valuable runs. Lee can't believe it, the crowd can't believe it, I can't believe it. |
1516: England 146-1 Yet more frustration for the great Warne, who cannot believe how many times Bell has now played and missed at one of his ripping, snorting leg breaks. Maybe Warney should consider put a little less spin on the ball. To be fair to Bell, even Bradman in his prime would have trouble with one that turns four feet. | 1516: England 146-1 Yet more frustration for the great Warne, who cannot believe how many times Bell has now played and missed at one of his ripping, snorting leg breaks. Maybe Warney should consider put a little less spin on the ball. To be fair to Bell, even Bradman in his prime would have trouble with one that turns four feet. |
"Two scenarios are the choice here. Either one wicket falls and then the rest collapse for less than 20, or Cook and Bell take us within a gnat's of 557 and then play is interrupted because some fat bloke lands his sleigh and reindeer on the wicket."Baz, via TMS inbox | "Two scenarios are the choice here. Either one wicket falls and then the rest collapse for less than 20, or Cook and Bell take us within a gnat's of 557 and then play is interrupted because some fat bloke lands his sleigh and reindeer on the wicket."Baz, via TMS inbox |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "If this pair makes 200+, England have every chance to re-write the record books."Dave, via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "If this pair makes 200+, England have every chance to re-write the record books."Dave, via text |
"It's steady cricket, it's very watchable and interesting. They are both having little adventures these two batters, especially when Warne's bowling. But the bowlers will be really feeling it in this heat, just hoping Cook or Bell make a mistake."Geoff Lawson on TMS | "It's steady cricket, it's very watchable and interesting. They are both having little adventures these two batters, especially when Warne's bowling. But the bowlers will be really feeling it in this heat, just hoping Cook or Bell make a mistake."Geoff Lawson on TMS |
1509: England 144-1 A rare beat-the-bat from Lee, as Cook nearly gets out to the ball that he just keeps getting out to outside off stump. The crowd liven up again, until Cook pulls the blond bombshell for an easy two to Justin Langer in the deep. | 1509: England 144-1 A rare beat-the-bat from Lee, as Cook nearly gets out to the ball that he just keeps getting out to outside off stump. The crowd liven up again, until Cook pulls the blond bombshell for an easy two to Justin Langer in the deep. |
1505: England 142-1 Cook misreads a Warne wrong 'un but he's in good company, as Adam Gilchrist is also completely deceived and deflects the ball into the ribs of a startled Matthew Hayden at slip. Gilly thinks it's hilarious, not sure about MH. Warne is just monumentally frustrated at not being able to make the breakthrough. Little else matters to him. | 1505: England 142-1 Cook misreads a Warne wrong 'un but he's in good company, as Adam Gilchrist is also completely deceived and deflects the ball into the ribs of a startled Matthew Hayden at slip. Gilly thinks it's hilarious, not sure about MH. Warne is just monumentally frustrated at not being able to make the breakthrough. Little else matters to him. |
1458: England 138-1 Cook chops Warne past slip for a couple more. I wonder how long Warne will bowl for, a lot of you have been asking. He is 37 and must be getting tired, after all. Look, I'm trying not to jinx this, can you lot please try and do the same? I'm trying not to get too excited here. | 1458: England 138-1 Cook chops Warne past slip for a couple more. I wonder how long Warne will bowl for, a lot of you have been asking. He is 37 and must be getting tired, after all. Look, I'm trying not to jinx this, can you lot please try and do the same? I'm trying not to get too excited here. |
"Ok Alison, I'll have a fiver on Jones and two quid each way on world peace. Tonight anything is possible, it is nearly Christmas after all."Andrew, via TMS inbox | "Ok Alison, I'll have a fiver on Jones and two quid each way on world peace. Tonight anything is possible, it is nearly Christmas after all."Andrew, via TMS inbox |
1453: England 135-1 Brett Lee is back on for McGrath and it's an over loaded with looseners, if you know what I mean. Cook still likes to play the pull off him, but there's a man in the deep to keep it to a single. | 1453: England 135-1 Brett Lee is back on for McGrath and it's an over loaded with looseners, if you know what I mean. Cook still likes to play the pull off him, but there's a man in the deep to keep it to a single. |
1447: England 132-1 My favourite shot of the innings so far, as Bell majestically clips a spinning Warne delivery through mid-wicket for four. It's a shot loaded with risk, but Bell does not want the great leg-spinner to settle. | 1447: England 132-1 My favourite shot of the innings so far, as Bell majestically clips a spinning Warne delivery through mid-wicket for four. It's a shot loaded with risk, but Bell does not want the great leg-spinner to settle. |
1446: England 127-1 Cook confidently tucks McGrath off his pads for three as England continue to put their shaky start to the afternoon session behind them. The Aussie crowd is trying to get behind McGrath and Warne, but the Barmy Army they ain't. | 1446: England 127-1 Cook confidently tucks McGrath off his pads for three as England continue to put their shaky start to the afternoon session behind them. The Aussie crowd is trying to get behind McGrath and Warne, but the Barmy Army they ain't. |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
"These are our office pool odds tonight: World peace by midnight, 5-1, Geraint Jones getting into double figures, 40-1."Alison, via TMS inbox | "These are our office pool odds tonight: World peace by midnight, 5-1, Geraint Jones getting into double figures, 40-1."Alison, via TMS inbox |
How to listen to TMS "When I saw Cook before the Test match he said to me 'Geoffrey, put your money on me, I'm going to score a hundred in this one."Geoff Boycott on TMS | How to listen to TMS "When I saw Cook before the Test match he said to me 'Geoffrey, put your money on me, I'm going to score a hundred in this one."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
1441: England 122-1 Alastair Cook reaches his highest score against Australia, rocking onto the back foot and chopping Warne through extra-cover for four. He gets to his half-century in slightly fortuitous fashion, getting an inside edge on a much fuller Warne ball and the ball running away for four. Bravo son, bravo! | 1441: England 122-1 Alastair Cook reaches his highest score against Australia, rocking onto the back foot and chopping Warne through extra-cover for four. He gets to his half-century in slightly fortuitous fashion, getting an inside edge on a much fuller Warne ball and the ball running away for four. Bravo son, bravo! |
1437: England 113-1 Ian Bell, are you trying to give a nation collective heart failure? He plays a remarkable shot, lifting Glenn McGrath over Symonds at mid-off for a cheeky couple. Doesn't clear the clown prince by much, mind. | 1437: England 113-1 Ian Bell, are you trying to give a nation collective heart failure? He plays a remarkable shot, lifting Glenn McGrath over Symonds at mid-off for a cheeky couple. Doesn't clear the clown prince by much, mind. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "What will the Aussies be like without Warne? Whatever people say he is a living legend with the ball. But when he does retire I will only feel happiness!"James, via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "What will the Aussies be like without Warne? Whatever people say he is a living legend with the ball. But when he does retire I will only feel happiness!"James, via text |
1433: England 111-1 Bell breaks the stranglehold by driving Warne pleasantly through the covers for a brace before rocking onto the back foot and taking a quick single to a pretty deep mid-on. I must admit, I'm thoroughly impressed by these two boys. At just 21 (Cook) and 24 (Bell), surely the future of English cricket is brighter than the present? | 1433: England 111-1 Bell breaks the stranglehold by driving Warne pleasantly through the covers for a brace before rocking onto the back foot and taking a quick single to a pretty deep mid-on. I must admit, I'm thoroughly impressed by these two boys. At just 21 (Cook) and 24 (Bell), surely the future of English cricket is brighter than the present? |
1430: England 108-1 McGrath bowls another maiden, including a real pearler from around the wicket to Cook that pitches and leaves the batsman, beating his outside edge. Great contests going on at both ends, and for the moment at least, England are surviving. | 1430: England 108-1 McGrath bowls another maiden, including a real pearler from around the wicket to Cook that pitches and leaves the batsman, beating his outside edge. Great contests going on at both ends, and for the moment at least, England are surviving. |
1427: England 108-1 Warne is on-song now, oh boy, as Tony Greig might say. He gets yet another play and miss from Bell and lets him know exactly what he thinks, too. It's a maiden, Warne's first of the Test match, in his 20th over. Rare. | 1427: England 108-1 Warne is on-song now, oh boy, as Tony Greig might say. He gets yet another play and miss from Bell and lets him know exactly what he thinks, too. It's a maiden, Warne's first of the Test match, in his 20th over. Rare. |
1423: England 108-1 Bell plays a terrible-looking hoik off McGrath, he could so easily have been caught but the ball falls just over silly mid-on and lands safely. Bell is not quite looking as in control as he did before lunch. I wonder what he ate? | 1423: England 108-1 Bell plays a terrible-looking hoik off McGrath, he could so easily have been caught but the ball falls just over silly mid-on and lands safely. Bell is not quite looking as in control as he did before lunch. I wonder what he ate? |
1419: England 107-1 Warne is getting it to turn scary amounts and Bell is beaten by a cracker that pitches outside leg and misses off. He fares better next time, driving hamdsomely through the covers for three. | 1419: England 107-1 Warne is getting it to turn scary amounts and Bell is beaten by a cracker that pitches outside leg and misses off. He fares better next time, driving hamdsomely through the covers for three. |
1416: England 104-1 Cook plays with soft hands and neatly deflects McGrath down to the vacant third man area for four. "I'd have started with Stuart Clark again," says Geoff on TMS. I agree, he's looked much more threatening than McGrath up until now. | 1416: England 104-1 Cook plays with soft hands and neatly deflects McGrath down to the vacant third man area for four. "I'd have started with Stuart Clark again," says Geoff on TMS. I agree, he's looked much more threatening than McGrath up until now. |
"Please don't think I'm taking anything away from the England batsmen, but I don't think Australia were at their most intense this morning. They didn't seem absolutely desperate to get in amongst them, like they usually always are."Geoff Boycott on TMS | "Please don't think I'm taking anything away from the England batsmen, but I don't think Australia were at their most intense this morning. They didn't seem absolutely desperate to get in amongst them, like they usually always are."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
1412: England 100-1 England's hundred is up as Cook turns Warne around the corner for a single. The master leg-spinner gets one to turn a mile and beats Bell's outside edge. | 1412: England 100-1 England's hundred is up as Cook turns Warne around the corner for a single. The master leg-spinner gets one to turn a mile and beats Bell's outside edge. |
"Just when I thought it safe to go to bed, having dismissed any chance of a game, professionalism seems to have reared its ugly head amongst the England batters. Shame on you!!"Steve, via TMS inbox | "Just when I thought it safe to go to bed, having dismissed any chance of a game, professionalism seems to have reared its ugly head amongst the England batters. Shame on you!!"Steve, via TMS inbox |
1410: Ian Bell and Alastair Cook resume their impressive innings after lunch at the Waca. | 1410: Ian Bell and Alastair Cook resume their impressive innings after lunch at the Waca. |
Let's Stay Positive: In September 2005, Essex batsman Alastair Cook scored a remarkable 214 from just 238 balls against an Australian attack including Brett Lee, Michael Kasprowicz and Stuart MacGill. Essex declared on 502 for four declared. | Let's Stay Positive: In September 2005, Essex batsman Alastair Cook scored a remarkable 214 from just 238 balls against an Australian attack including Brett Lee, Michael Kasprowicz and Stuart MacGill. Essex declared on 502 for four declared. |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
"I admit it, I believe we can win this Test match - and I am believing it more with every ball! New world record alert!"Dan, from London via text | "I admit it, I believe we can win this Test match - and I am believing it more with every ball! New world record alert!"Dan, from London via text |
"Helman - done. Two days of boring cricket is nothing if the prize is to still be in the Ashes and not 3-0 down."Bren, via TMS inbox | "Helman - done. Two days of boring cricket is nothing if the prize is to still be in the Ashes and not 3-0 down."Bren, via TMS inbox |
How to listen to TMS "England could not have hoped for a better morning, certainly. We've got two young players out there and they have learned a lot and proved quite a lot already today. They'll be improving by the minute. And where there's life, there's hope."Vic Marks on TMS | How to listen to TMS "England could not have hoped for a better morning, certainly. We've got two young players out there and they have learned a lot and proved quite a lot already today. They'll be improving by the minute. And where there's life, there's hope."Vic Marks on TMS |
LUNCH | LUNCH |
1330: England 99-1 Just when Bell was finding batting at the Waca a delight, he gets hammered in the box by a McGrath lifter. He writhes around in severe discomfort, though his team-mates on the England balcony find it a bit funnier. The session ends and full credit to these two, they have batted sensibly and without great alarm. | 1330: England 99-1 Just when Bell was finding batting at the Waca a delight, he gets hammered in the box by a McGrath lifter. He writhes around in severe discomfort, though his team-mates on the England balcony find it a bit funnier. The session ends and full credit to these two, they have batted sensibly and without great alarm. |
1326: England 99-1 Cook gets in on the act by swivelling in his crease and pulling a long-hop over Glenn McGrath in the deep for a one-bounce four. Looked like McGrath just didn't pick it up, otherwise he may have had a chance at catching that. No "Dad's Army" theme tune, though. Don't get him angry, he's on at the other end. | 1326: England 99-1 Cook gets in on the act by swivelling in his crease and pulling a long-hop over Glenn McGrath in the deep for a one-bounce four. Looked like McGrath just didn't pick it up, otherwise he may have had a chance at catching that. No "Dad's Army" theme tune, though. Don't get him angry, he's on at the other end. |
"I was at that match between South Africa and Australia that is being referred to where the Proteas batted for four sessions to save a draw. If this is to happen here, prepare yourselves for the most boring two days of cricket you have ever seen."Helman, via TMS inbox | "I was at that match between South Africa and Australia that is being referred to where the Proteas batted for four sessions to save a draw. If this is to happen here, prepare yourselves for the most boring two days of cricket you have ever seen."Helman, via TMS inbox |
1323: England 93-1 Bell looks completely unflustered by everything going on around him, which is probably quite a lot of sledging to be fair. Warney's not been slow in having a pop, despite seeing Bell lash him into the crowd twice. McGrath gets one to spit at Bell this time, but he just coolly drops in down in front of him. Classy. | 1323: England 93-1 Bell looks completely unflustered by everything going on around him, which is probably quite a lot of sledging to be fair. Warney's not been slow in having a pop, despite seeing Bell lash him into the crowd twice. McGrath gets one to spit at Bell this time, but he just coolly drops in down in front of him. Classy. |
How to listen to TMS "Please wipe that smugness off those Aussie faces!"Jez in Shropshire, via text | How to listen to TMS "Please wipe that smugness off those Aussie faces!"Jez in Shropshire, via text |
1317: England 92-1 Ian Bell is deperate not to be tied down and he uses his feet brilliantly twice, launching one glorious shot straight over the top for six and then drilling Warne through the covers for four. He even turns the wrong 'un into the leg side for one. A very mature half-century for Bell, who don't forget came into the Ashes bang in form. | 1317: England 92-1 Ian Bell is deperate not to be tied down and he uses his feet brilliantly twice, launching one glorious shot straight over the top for six and then drilling Warne through the covers for four. He even turns the wrong 'un into the leg side for one. A very mature half-century for Bell, who don't forget came into the Ashes bang in form. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Come on! Deep down you all really believe we can do it. Admit it, go on!!!"Andrew in Florida, via TMS inbox | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Come on! Deep down you all really believe we can do it. Admit it, go on!!!"Andrew in Florida, via TMS inbox |
1315: England 81-1 Glenn McGrath comes back on for Clark and is tickled fine for four by Cook bowling around the wicket at the left-hander. The Barmy Army trumpeter is playing the theme tune to "Dad's Army" in honour of the 36-year-old legend. | 1315: England 81-1 Glenn McGrath comes back on for Clark and is tickled fine for four by Cook bowling around the wicket at the left-hander. The Barmy Army trumpeter is playing the theme tune to "Dad's Army" in honour of the 36-year-old legend. |
1311: England 77-1 Bell tries a premeditated sweep to Warne but the leg-spinner bowls cleverly way outside off stump, causing Bell to nearly fall over in his crease. He reponds by shuffling down the track and taking a single to long-off. Cook rocks onto his back foot to nurdle on behind square leg. It's fabulously watchable stuff, this, with both sides more than playing their part. | 1311: England 77-1 Bell tries a premeditated sweep to Warne but the leg-spinner bowls cleverly way outside off stump, causing Bell to nearly fall over in his crease. He reponds by shuffling down the track and taking a single to long-off. Cook rocks onto his back foot to nurdle on behind square leg. It's fabulously watchable stuff, this, with both sides more than playing their part. |
1307: England 73-1 Clark isn't causing many problems, but he is getting the occasional delivery to rear up and he gets another false shot from Cook which takes a leading edge and falls halfway between the pair. The Aussies don't look too frustrated at the moment, it must be said. | 1307: England 73-1 Clark isn't causing many problems, but he is getting the occasional delivery to rear up and he gets another false shot from Cook which takes a leading edge and falls halfway between the pair. The Aussies don't look too frustrated at the moment, it must be said. |
1303: England 72-1 Cook and Bell both take singles off Warne, who needs five wickets to become the first bowler in the history of the game to take 700 Test match wickets. Would anyone dare bet against a man who has tortured England for the best part of 13 long years? | 1303: England 72-1 Cook and Bell both take singles off Warne, who needs five wickets to become the first bowler in the history of the game to take 700 Test match wickets. Would anyone dare bet against a man who has tortured England for the best part of 13 long years? |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
1259: England 70-1 Bell chases a really wide one from Clark and misses it all ends up, to the dismay of the Aussie slip cordon. Clark isn't giving these boys much to hit, but they don't look too bothered. Good temperaments they've shown so far, which is exactly what England need to make any sort of fight of this. | 1259: England 70-1 Bell chases a really wide one from Clark and misses it all ends up, to the dismay of the Aussie slip cordon. Clark isn't giving these boys much to hit, but they don't look too bothered. Good temperaments they've shown so far, which is exactly what England need to make any sort of fight of this. |
1255: England 70-1 Warne is bowling around the wicket to Cook, into some pretty severe rough outside the off stump. Bell then leans on one for a single into the offside. Still not sure Bell can pick Warne, but this is England's best second-wicket partnership of the tour, so who's complaining? | 1255: England 70-1 Warne is bowling around the wicket to Cook, into some pretty severe rough outside the off stump. Bell then leans on one for a single into the offside. Still not sure Bell can pick Warne, but this is England's best second-wicket partnership of the tour, so who's complaining? |
1251: England 68-1 Clark slants a rare one down leg side that Bell misses out on, but the rest is right on the money. Except the last ball of the over, short and wide, which Bell carves, Atherton-esque, down to the vacant third man area for four. Second lot of drinks of the session come out along with one of those ridiculously over-sized drinks floats. | 1251: England 68-1 Clark slants a rare one down leg side that Bell misses out on, but the rest is right on the money. Except the last ball of the over, short and wide, which Bell carves, Atherton-esque, down to the vacant third man area for four. Second lot of drinks of the session come out along with one of those ridiculously over-sized drinks floats. |
1246: England 64-1 Cook gets a couple through cover and Warne lets out a dramatic cry of frustration. Not quite as testing as his first two overs, but it sure is spinning a fair bit out there. | 1246: England 64-1 Cook gets a couple through cover and Warne lets out a dramatic cry of frustration. Not quite as testing as his first two overs, but it sure is spinning a fair bit out there. |
"I just don't know how Warne gets away with stuff like that. He appeals more than anyone else does in the game, it's an amazing sight. He just wears the umpires down."Geoff Lawson on TMS | "I just don't know how Warne gets away with stuff like that. He appeals more than anyone else does in the game, it's an amazing sight. He just wears the umpires down."Geoff Lawson on TMS |
1239: England 62-1 England might have got away with it there. Cook misses a ball that rips from outside off stump, playing back, and Warne appeals furiously to umpire Rudi Koertzen, who just stares menacingly back to him. | 1239: England 62-1 England might have got away with it there. Cook misses a ball that rips from outside off stump, playing back, and Warne appeals furiously to umpire Rudi Koertzen, who just stares menacingly back to him. |
1235: England 59-1 Just the 500 to get now then. Clark gets one to bounce nastily at Cook, who then plays one off his hips for a couple to move into the 20s. | 1235: England 59-1 Just the 500 to get now then. Clark gets one to bounce nastily at Cook, who then plays one off his hips for a couple to move into the 20s. |
1230: England 55-1 What an over. Ian Bell dances down the pitch and lofts Warne over mid-off for four. It's a lovely shot, but Warne responds by getting one to rip from four inches outside leg stump to beat the outside edge. Bell hits back by dancing down again and lofting Warne over his head for six. A maximum, the full monty, all the way. Great drama. | 1230: England 55-1 What an over. Ian Bell dances down the pitch and lofts Warne over mid-off for four. It's a lovely shot, but Warne responds by getting one to rip from four inches outside leg stump to beat the outside edge. Bell hits back by dancing down again and lofting Warne over his head for six. A maximum, the full monty, all the way. Great drama. |
How to listen to TMS "I can see it now: Monty Panesar flicks Warne through the leg side for the winning four and is carried off by a jubilant Andrew Flintoff, who is 325 not out at the other end. Remember the saying - NO GUTS, NO GLORY."Stuart, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "I can see it now: Monty Panesar flicks Warne through the leg side for the winning four and is carried off by a jubilant Andrew Flintoff, who is 325 not out at the other end. Remember the saying - NO GUTS, NO GLORY."Stuart, via TMS inbox |
1224: England 44-1 The brilliant Stuart Clark is brought on, not before time in my opinion too, and immediately draws a false shot into the gully from Bell before rapping him on the pad, way too high, with one that swings in. Warney's coming on at the other end, too. | 1224: England 44-1 The brilliant Stuart Clark is brought on, not before time in my opinion too, and immediately draws a false shot into the gully from Bell before rapping him on the pad, way too high, with one that swings in. Warney's coming on at the other end, too. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Shane's coming. That generally spells a cataclysmic collapse. At least the likely duel with KP will entertain."Chris, via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Shane's coming. That generally spells a cataclysmic collapse. At least the likely duel with KP will entertain."Chris, via text |
1217: England 44-1 Bell beautifully glances a full McGrath ball off his pads for four through mid-wicket, a fine execution from the 24-year-old. | 1217: England 44-1 Bell beautifully glances a full McGrath ball off his pads for four through mid-wicket, a fine execution from the 24-year-old. |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |
Let's Stay Positive: In December 1995, South Africa set England 479 to win or 165 overs to survive. Michael Atherton was there at the end on 185 not out after 643 minutes and 492 balls. Jack Russell batted two sessions for a 235-ball 29. | Let's Stay Positive: In December 1995, South Africa set England 479 to win or 165 overs to survive. Michael Atherton was there at the end on 185 not out after 643 minutes and 492 balls. Jack Russell batted two sessions for a 235-ball 29. |
1209: England 40-1 Lee follows up a McGrath maiden with one of his own and it could be his last in this spell, with (dramatic pause) Shane Warne limbering up furiously. | 1209: England 40-1 Lee follows up a McGrath maiden with one of his own and it could be his last in this spell, with (dramatic pause) Shane Warne limbering up furiously. |
"The good thing from England's point of view is that the ball isn't moving at all. It's up to the mental resolve and agility of the batsmen to stay in for as long as they can."Geoff Boycott on TMS | "The good thing from England's point of view is that the ball isn't moving at all. It's up to the mental resolve and agility of the batsmen to stay in for as long as they can."Geoff Boycott on TMS |
1202: England 40-1 Cook and Bell both take a single from Lee, who has now tried the yorker to attempt to break the partnership. It's another scorching day in Perth and you wonder how long a quickie like Lee can last in this heat. | 1202: England 40-1 Cook and Bell both take a single from Lee, who has now tried the yorker to attempt to break the partnership. It's another scorching day in Perth and you wonder how long a quickie like Lee can last in this heat. |
"Are you an Aussie? If not, stop jinxing/trying to jinx our batsmen. Thanks"Chris, via TMS inbox. I swear Chris, I'm not doing it on purpose. I'm as English as warm beer, as tea and crumpets, as Big Ben. Honest. C'mon England | "Are you an Aussie? If not, stop jinxing/trying to jinx our batsmen. Thanks"Chris, via TMS inbox. I swear Chris, I'm not doing it on purpose. I'm as English as warm beer, as tea and crumpets, as Big Ben. Honest. C'mon England |
"How do you explain to people who don't understand that England are actually better than Australia? It'd be nice for these two to get big hundreds. Standard."Pearlo, via text | "How do you explain to people who don't understand that England are actually better than Australia? It'd be nice for these two to get big hundreds. Standard."Pearlo, via text |
1153: England 36-1 Remember those two majestic pulls shots in front of square Cook played off Lee in the first innings? He's only gone and done it again, a glorious effort from the talented young opener. Might be worth remembering that five minutes later he was out in the first innings. I'm just saying. | 1153: England 36-1 Remember those two majestic pulls shots in front of square Cook played off Lee in the first innings? He's only gone and done it again, a glorious effort from the talented young opener. Might be worth remembering that five minutes later he was out in the first innings. I'm just saying. |
1149: England 31-1 The much-more-spotted McGrath maiden comes into play, largely left alone by Ian Bell. I'd mention how compact and confident Bell looks, but I'd only get accused of jinxing him when he's out in a couple of overs. | 1149: England 31-1 The much-more-spotted McGrath maiden comes into play, largely left alone by Ian Bell. I'd mention how compact and confident Bell looks, but I'd only get accused of jinxing him when he's out in a couple of overs. |
1145: England 31-1 Ian Bell plays an uppish cut through the covers off Lee, the boundary only prevented by yet another stunning piece of fielding by the athletic Andrew Symonds, running back 30 yards to dive full-length and keep the ball in play. Awesome. | 1145: England 31-1 Ian Bell plays an uppish cut through the covers off Lee, the boundary only prevented by yet another stunning piece of fielding by the athletic Andrew Symonds, running back 30 yards to dive full-length and keep the ball in play. Awesome. |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Go on the lads. We created Australia and we can beat them! COME ON THE BOYS!"Tim from Beckenham, via text | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "Go on the lads. We created Australia and we can beat them! COME ON THE BOYS!"Tim from Beckenham, via text |
1141: England 27-1 Ian Bell plays and misses at a Glenn McGrath outswinger and then pulls the last ball of the over for four in front of square. The over includes McGrath's lesser-spotted-wide and a no-ball, too. | 1141: England 27-1 Ian Bell plays and misses at a Glenn McGrath outswinger and then pulls the last ball of the over for four in front of square. The over includes McGrath's lesser-spotted-wide and a no-ball, too. |
How to listen to TMS "Well, it seems that we should be burning something new after the performance from England up to now. I vote for the selectors. Not to worry, we'll be here all night (hopefully) to witness Flintoff's fastest 100 ever."James, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Well, it seems that we should be burning something new after the performance from England up to now. I vote for the selectors. Not to worry, we'll be here all night (hopefully) to witness Flintoff's fastest 100 ever."James, via TMS inbox |
"It's funny how cricket can make you feel helpless sometimes. We're all thinking of how England could possibly save this game."Jonathan Agnew on TMS | "It's funny how cricket can make you feel helpless sometimes. We're all thinking of how England could possibly save this game."Jonathan Agnew on TMS |
1135: England 21-1 Brett Lee comes flying in for the first over of the day and Alastair Cook deals with him comfortably, even clipping the last ball for two behind square on the leg side. Lee's going around the wicket already to the left-hander. | 1135: England 21-1 Brett Lee comes flying in for the first over of the day and Alastair Cook deals with him comfortably, even clipping the last ball for two behind square on the leg side. Lee's going around the wicket already to the left-hander. |
1130: England batsmen Alastair Cook and Ian Bell walk to the wicket at the Waca with their team on 19-1, chasing 557 to bring the Ashes back to life. | 1130: England batsmen Alastair Cook and Ian Bell walk to the wicket at the Waca with their team on 19-1, chasing 557 to bring the Ashes back to life. |
Let's Stay Positive: Last year, South Africa batted for four sessions to save the Test against Australia at the Waca. Jacques Rudolph scored a fine unbeaten 102 and they finished on 287-5. | Let's Stay Positive: Last year, South Africa batted for four sessions to save the Test against Australia at the Waca. Jacques Rudolph scored a fine unbeaten 102 and they finished on 287-5. |
Something for Freddie to read to his troops:"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile, This day shall gentle his condition: And gentlemen in England now a-bed Shall think themselves accursed they were not here, And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day." Peter Atkinson, via TMS inbox | Something for Freddie to read to his troops:"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile, This day shall gentle his condition: And gentlemen in England now a-bed Shall think themselves accursed they were not here, And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day." Peter Atkinson, via TMS inbox |
Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "This was an ideal wicket for Panesar. It bounced and turned and suited his bowling. We don't know what would have happened on the other wickets. We've been quite comfortable with who we've picked."Not exactly a come-down from Duncan Fletcher | Send us your texts on 84040 (from the UK only) "This was an ideal wicket for Panesar. It bounced and turned and suited his bowling. We don't know what would have happened on the other wickets. We've been quite comfortable with who we've picked."Not exactly a come-down from Duncan Fletcher |
How to listen to TMS "Team - just the three double hundreds and the Ashes are retained."Mike, via TMS inbox | How to listen to TMS "Team - just the three double hundreds and the Ashes are retained."Mike, via TMS inbox |
"I can't tell you how sombre a place our dressing-room is at the moment. We are not giving the Aussies a fight at the moment."Kevin Pietersen in his News of the World cloumn | "I can't tell you how sombre a place our dressing-room is at the moment. We are not giving the Aussies a fight at the moment."Kevin Pietersen in his News of the World cloumn |
"Is it on green or red?"Is it going to be one of those days when you get a colour-blind taxi driver? | "Is it on green or red?"Is it going to be one of those days when you get a colour-blind taxi driver? |
Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk | Email the BBC Sport website and the TMS team on TMS@bbc.co.uk |