'This Australian attack makes you work hard for every run' – Denly

Denly had an ordinary start to the Ashes, but his 94 on Saturday, 14 September, was his third fifty in five innings.

Denly acknowledged that he would've liked to score the additional six runs to get his maiden Test hundred, but was happy nonetheless to have contributed to England's dominant position – they are leading by 382 runs, with two wickets still in hand, and in with a strong chance to draw the series.

"It would have been nice to get to that milestone today, having worked so hard, but England are in a good position. Hopefully, I have impressed the selectors," he said.

“Whenever you open the batting, there is expectation to score runs and do well. It’s been frustrating to get starts and not be able to capitalise. I felt very good today. It's a very good bowling attack we're coming up against. This Australian attack is certainly up there and make you work hard for every run.”

With the knock, Denly has also shown his ability to adapt to the challenge of opening the batting, a position he isn't accustomed to. The 32-year-old said he was happy to fullfil any role in the batting order.

"Wherever Rooty [Joe Root, the England captain] asks me to bat, I don't think I'm in a position to demand where I want to bat. To be playing for England is a privilege, certainly at my age. I didn't think I'll be here a couple of years ago, so to get the opportunity is very special. And if that opportunity [to open] presents itself again in the future, then I'd be happy to do it.