For cricket fans around the world, the Ashes 2023 series has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. On Day 4 of the 2nd Test at Headingley, a sports bar owner in Leeds made the decision to express their feelings in a unique and eye-catching way. “Same old Aussies – Taylors Sports Bar” was clearly visible on a plane as it hovered over the stadium.
This playful gesture has originated in a controversial dismissal that happened during the Lord’s Test, where England’s Jonny Bairstow got himself at the centre of a heated argument. Bairstow briefly left his crease to have a conversation with his partner, Ben Stokes, as he attempted to avoid a bouncer from Australia’s Cameron Green. With a keen eye, Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey saw the chance and quickly tossed the ball in the direction of the stumps, which ultimately led to Bairstow’s dismissal.
The bizarre plane banner thrilled the fans as the third Ashes Test at Headingley was preparing for a thrilling conclusion. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley from England took the field at the start of the day with a target of chasing down Australia’s lead of 250 runs, beginning with 27/0.
However, the Australian bowling attack was headed by Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. The match’s momentum shifted in Australia’s favour after Starc quickly eliminated Duckett (23) and Moeen Ali (5). Starc’s ruthless precision soon claimed the wickets of Ben Stokes (13) and Bairstow (5).
While Mitchell Marsh dismissed the tough Zak Crawley (44) and Pat Cummins got the critical wicket of England’s captain, Joe Root.
Though, the game’s turning point happened on the fourth day when Chris Woakes and Harry Brook partnered for a game-changing 59 runs for the 7th wicket. The foundation for England’s ultimate victory was laid by their extraordinary patience and talent in the face of the strong Australian bowling attack.
Brook propels England to 3 Wicket Win
The heroic effort of Brook was cut short when he got caught off the bowling of Mitchell Starc in a thrilling ultimatum innings with England requiring 251 runs to win. The contest was still in doubt at that point since England had a score of 230-7.
Woakes hit the decisive boundary off Starc’s ball in the final moments of the session, bringing off delighted celebrations among English players and fans. With a final score of 254-7, England made a spectacular comeback and secured a miraculous victory.
By defeating Australia by three wickets in the third Test, England won the 3rd Test of Ashes 2023 in an incredible and special victory at Headingley. With this victory, England kept alive the five-match series and reignited their desire to win back the coveted trophy.
The plane banner was a lighthearted reminder of the ongoing discussion regarding Australia’s strategy for the match as it floated above Headingley. It brought laughter to a heated battle and showcased the fierce and frequently funny banter that drives the rivalry between these two cricketing giants.
Ashes 2023 3rd Test, England vs Australia Brief scores:
Australia:
- 1st Innings: 263 (Marsh 118, Head 39, Wood 5-34)
- 2nd Innings: 224 (Head 77, Broad 3-45)
England:
- 1st Innings: 237 (Stokes 80, Zak 33, Cummins 6-91)
- 2nd Innings: 254/7 (Brooks 75, Zak 44, Starc 5-78)
England won by 3 wickets
Also Read: Asia Cup 2023 Schedule delayed again, Check Out Why
