Ashes 2019: Joe Root makes fighting fifty as England keep faint third Test hopes alive

Catch-up on how all the action unfolded on Day Three at Headingley

Ashes third Test preview

England fought their way to 155-3, but Australia remain favourites to win the third Ashes Test.

Joe Root and Joe Denly both passed fifty in pursuit of a target of 359, and though the latter departed soon after reaching his half-century, England’s captain remains unbeaten overnight on 75.

Root’s fine hand ensures England maintain slim hopes of pulling off the most remarkable of chases, and you can see how the third day’s action all unfolded below:

When is the third Test?

The third Test takes place on 22-26 August.

What time does it start?

The toss takes place at 10:30am in Thursday, with play scheduled to get underway at 11am each day.

Where can I watch it?

Live coverage of each day’s play will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports The Ashes from 10am.

Odds

England to win: 8/11

Australia to win: 21/10

Draw: 29/4

Prediction

England to win: As long as the weather plays ball, this could be the moment the series swings in England’s favour. With Jofra Archer set to renew his bowling assault and no Steve Smith to dig Australia out of trouble, England should be able to level the series here with bright sunshine forecast for the weekend.

Key Points

• England close Day Three on 155-3, requiring a further 203 runs for victory
• Captain Joe Root remains at the crease on 75 not out
• Joe Denly and Root shared a fighting hundred partnership before the former fell to Josh Hazlewood
• Australia will retain the Ashes if they win the third Test

[25 August 2019 17:39 · Callum Rice-Coates]

[25 August 2019 17:48 · Callum Rice-Coates]

[25 August 2019 17:51 · Callum Rice-Coates]

[25 August 2019 18:12 · Callum Rice-Coates]