Jacob Bethell’s Heroic Maiden Ton Keeps England Alive

The Ashes 2025-26 series might have concluded today if not for a sensational rescue act by 22-year-old Jacob Bethell. On Day 4 of the Sydney Test, the young left-hander played the innings of his life, smashing his maiden first-class century to drag England back from the brink of defeat. As the sun set over the SCG on Wednesday (January 7), Bethell walked off to a standing ovation, remaining unbeat

England ended the day at 302/8 in their second innings, holding a slender lead of 119 runs. With only two wickets remaining, the tourists will look to Bethell and tail-ender Matthew Potts to weave a miracle on the final day.

A Star is Born Born in Barbados in 2003, Bethell chose the grandest stage—the Ashes—to record his first ever three-figure score in professional red-ball cricket. He is now the youngest Englishman to hit an Ashes century since Alastair Cook in 2006. His gritty 232-ball knock, decorated with 15 boundaries, stood in stark contrast to the rest of the batting order.

Calamity at the Other End While Bethell exuded calm, his senior teammates struggled. Joe Root fell for just 6, trapped LBW by an inspired Scott Boland. Ben Duckett and Harry Brook both reached 42 but failed to convert, while Jamie Smith’s chaotic run-out and Will Jacks’ poor shot selection added to England's woes.

Australia’s Dominance Earlier in the day, Australia’s first innings ended at a massive 567, thanks to a clinical 138 from Steve Smith and a steady 71* from Beau Webster. Webster then turned destroyer with the ball, picking up 3/51 to dismantle England’s middle order.

Despite the odds favoring an Australian victory, Bethell has ensured that the Sydney Test will at least see a fifth day. Whether his "miracle" can secure a draw or a shock win remains to be seen.