Updated on
Summary
Another stirring chapter in Mike Hussey's series of a lifetime means England must chase 391 runs to retain the Ashes in the third Test at the WACA ground. Australia were bowled out for 309 shortly after tea, reliant largely on the contributions of Hussey (116) and opener Shane Watson (95). Australia appeared to be in an invincible position at 252-4 midway through the day, but then slumped to 284-8 as the tail offered scant support to the centurion, falling to some ill-judged shots as recalled paceman Chris Tremlett (4-76) gave the tourists renewed hope. If England win here they retain the Ashes, while an Australian win levels the series with two Tests to play.England have only ever successfully chased 300 in the fourth innings three times in Test cricket. Their biggest ever chase was back in 1928 at the MCG, when they made 332-7 to defeat Australia.
