Australia vs England Live Updates, 5th Test Day 2: England were all out for 384 in their first innings of the fifth and final Ashes Test against Australia on Monday, riding on a magnificent 160 from Joe Root at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Resuming the day at 211 for 3, England looked to build a strong total with Root on 72 and Harry Brook on 78, and the duo initially frustrated the Australian bowlers with a solid partnership in the morning session.

Root showcased his trademark composure and precision, finding gaps effortlessly and rotating the strike to keep the scoreboard moving. He brought up his 41st Test century in style, reaffirming his status as one of England’s finest batters in red-ball cricket. Brook complemented Root well with an aggressive yet controlled knock of 84, punishing loose deliveries and ensuring England crossed the 300-run mark.

After Brook’s dismissal, England lost wickets at regular intervals, but Jamie Smith added valuable runs down the order with a fighting 46 to push the total to a competitive 384. Australia clawed their way back into the contest through disciplined bowling, with Michael Neser emerging as the pick of the bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 4 for 60. The Australian attack maintained pressure through consistent lines and lengths, preventing England from posting an even bigger score.

Australia, who already hold an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series following victories in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, have retained the Ashes urn. With conditions still offering assistance to the bowlers at the SCG, the hosts will look to capitalize on England’s total as they aim to close out the series on a high in the final Test.