Australia continue to press despite Bethell resistance in Sydney
Maiden Test century for the young left-hander the highlight for England, though Australia's push for Sydney victory continues.
By Daniel Beswick at the SCG
A stunning maiden Test century from young England No.3 Jacob Bethell provided the the biggest resistance to Australia's charge on day four of the final Ashes meeting in Sydney.
Walking out early in the tourists' second innings after Zak Crawley's (1) departure and 179 runs in arrears, Bethell was brilliant in the Australian heat, reaching three figures in 162 balls and finishing the day on 142 not out.
The left-hander was particularly strong behind square on the off-side againsst Australia's quick bowling attack, and was proactive in his foot movement when the hosts turned to spin as the day went on.
Bethell brought up his century, also his maiden first class ton, dancing down the pitch and whipping Beau Webster's off-spin over wide long-on for four.
In spite of Bethell's excellence, it was Australia who continued their relentless push to a 4-1 series win and 12 World Test Championship points, with Webster turning the screws as the SCG pitch showed its typical spin-friendly behaviour.
The Australian all-rounder removed Harry Brook (42) lbw and Will Jacks (2) in the space of three balls, and claimed an injured Ben Stokes, with the left-hander caught sharply at slip by opposing captain Steve Smith.
Australia were sharp in the field with Jake Weatherald capitalising on a mix up between Bethell and Jamie Smith (26), and the late wicket of Brydon Carse (16) meant England finished eight wickets down with a lead of just 119 at the close of play.
Ashes schedule:
First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21-22 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Second Test: Gabba, December 4-7 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17-21 (Australia won by 82 runs)
Fourth Test: MCG, December 26-30 (England won by 4 wickets)
Fifth Test: SCG, January 4-8
