LONDON: Australia retained the Ashes despite losing the fifth Test to England at The Oval in south London. The series ended 2-2 but Australia were already holders of the oldest and mos iconic cricketing prize.

England won the last duel of the summer by 135 runs to wrap up the first drawn series for 47 years. Australia, chasing 399 to win the match, were bowled out for bowled out for 262 despite the doughty resistance of Matthew Wade (117).

Australia’s outstanding batsman Steve Smith was named player of the series for his aggregate 774 runs.

England captain Joe Root, who had proved unable to follow up on the momentum of England’s dramatic World Cup triumph, said: “I thought we were brilliant. To bounce back from a very difficult emotional week, to come and play in the manner we have, the team has character in abundance.

“This was more of a template of how to play moving forward. It is a step in the right direction. I am very proud of everyone’s effort throughout the summer.”

###############