AUSTRALIA have retained the Ashes, but only after overcoming determined resistance from Somerset’s Craig Overton and Jack Leach at Old Trafford.
Two wickets down overnight, and needing to bat out day five to secure a series-saving draw, England fell to 93-5, and then 138-6 with the loss of Jonny Bairstow (25).
That brought Overton in to join Taunton-born Jos Buttler (34), but the latter’s departure was swiftly followed by that of Jofra Archer (1).
England 173-8... enter Leach stage left.
Together with Somerset team-mate Overton, he batted out 24 overs to frustrate the Australians.
But there was to be no second ‘Headingley Miracle’, as Leach was caught for 12 off the bowling of Marnus Labuschagne.
The decisive wicket soon followed - Overton trapped lbw by Josh Hazlewood for a 109-ball 21.
England were all out for 179, giving Australia the win by 185 runs, and a 2-1 series lead to ensure they keep hold of the urn.
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