The Ashes 2021-22: ‘Gutless’ England savaged after another collapse against Australia
An insipid England have been savaged by their critics, after yet another stunning collapse against Australia.
Chasing 271 for victory in Hobart, thanks to Mark Wood’s career-best figures, the visitors started with promise.
Rory Burns and Zak Crawley posted England’s highest opening partnership of the series, guiding the tourists to 0-68.
But when Cameron Green removed Burns, the England line up collapsed to lose 10/56.
It’s the second time England have lost 10 wickets for less than 62 runs this summer, and the fourth big collapse this series.
And the critics were quick to pounce.
“Gutless I thought the way they performed today,” 7 commentator Sir Ian Botham said. “The one thing we have to do is take our heads out of the sand.
“If we’re not careful, the Eskimos will be beating us.”
Fellow commentator Ricky Ponting agreed, describing the collapse as “embarrassing”.
Former England skipper Michael Vaughan was angry the side decided to “throw in the towel”.
“You can cope with losing but not when you throw the towel in .. !!” he posted.
Australia claimed victory in the Fifth Test inside three days - just like in Melbourne.
This series, England lost 4-29 and 8-74 in Brisbane, a stunning 8-86 in Adelaide, 10-61 in Melbourne and 4-14 in Sydney before Sunday’s dismal display.
“It has been a frustrating, tough tour,” England captain Joe Root said.
“It is pretty obvious we need to put some more runs on the board as a batting group, too often we have not given our bowlers enough to work with.
“In all areas ... we have been outplayed and credit to Australia.”
Root and coach Chris Silverwood remain under pressure to hold onto their roles after the shocking tour.
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