England keeps Ashes series alive

A match-defining half-century from Harry Brook was followed by lower-order heroics from Chris Woakes and Mark Wood as England pipped Australia by three wickets in a thriller to remain alive in the Ashes series in Leeds on Sunday. Ben Stokes, England captain, said, ‘Another down to the wire game. Nice to get over the line and keep our hopes alive. Won the toss, we could have batted and bowled. Looked a good wicket. Saw the way Mitch Marsh batted. Came in and took the game on. The outfield was on the quick side. We had Woody and Woakesy back in and they did well. We picked teams and look how they can impact us in the game. We try to see how they can be influential in the game. I didn’t realise that Woakes hasn’t played a Test for so long, he is Mr. Consistent. Having someone who can bat like him batting at 8 helps us. Hope he can do something similar when he plays next. [on Mark Wood] Having someone who can bowl at 95 mph is amazing. With the bat, he is just a free spirit. Goes back to the clarity. 24 off 8 balls was a massive swing in the game. Doesn’t always come off, but gives you a better chance to succeed. I think about Mo, he always wants to impact the game. He went to Brendon last night and said he wanted to take them on and have a crack at No. 3. Me and Baz just go with the flow. Great for both the teams. The next game is very vital. Everyone wants to see good cricket. This nine-day break will help the bodies a world of good. We love to come here and play cricket for England. [on the Headingley crowd] Absolutely sensational. The Western Terrace is always amazing. This place has memories that people will always remember and we love playing here.’ Pat Cummins, Australian captain, said, There were moments that went back and forth on each day. We lost 6 wickets for 20 odd on day 1. Each session has swung in one team’s favour. We could have kept going. 250 was competitive to bowl at. But wasn’t enough in the end. I thought Warner was