The Ashes

England on brink of victory after five quick wickets against Australia

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 11 July 2015

England are just three wickets away from victory on day four of the first Ashes test following a dominant afternoon performance that leaves Australia on 162-7.

England are on the verge of securing victory on day four of the first Ashes Test, needing just three wickets to win at tea following a dominant afternoon performance that has left Australia on 162-7.

Shane Watson of Australia looks dejected after being dismissed LBW by Mark Wood of England during day four of the 1st Investec Ashes Test match between England and Australia at SWALEC Stadium on July 11, 2015 © Getty Images

Steven Smith was dismissed in the first full over after lunch, which triggered a run of five wickets that left the tourists on the brink of defeat with four sessions still to play.

Stuart Broad has been the pick of the bowlers so far, with 3-22 off 10 overs, including three maidens, while Moeen Ali and Mark Wood both have two wickets to their names.

England's captain Alastair Cook makes a stunning catch to take the wicket of Australia's Brad Haddin during play on the fourth day of the opening Ashes cricket test match between England and Australia at The Swalec Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on July © Getty Images

Meanwhile, Ian Bell made two catches in the slips to remove openers Chris Rogers and Smith, and Alastair Cook was responsible for the dismissal of Brad Haddin at short-extra-cover.

Australia, who closed lunch on 97-2, only added 65 runs in 28 overs.

Follow the final session of the day on Sports Mole by clicking here.