As the dusk fell into a late sunny evening, a group of England’s most enthusiastic fans sprang to their feet.
They sung, “Don’t take me home. Please don’t take me home,” a chant that has become a signature tune for English sports. Some of those fans, if permitted, would likely stay overnight on the famous Western Terrace.
Headingley is bracing for another thrilling showdown.
England is off to a good start in its bid to keep the Ashes alive. Reaction pours in on the third day at Headingley.
Ashes and Sundays share a certain magic. The climaxes at Edgbaston and Trent Bridge in 2005, Ben Stokes’ heroics here in Leeds in 2019, and the dramatic end at Lord’s just last week all transpired on what is typically a day of relaxation.
But there is nothing restful about this upcoming Sunday.
Squirming in your seat will be the order of the day. The quick passing of the ball by the bat, wondering if it’s an edge, and the agonising wait for a review – cricket knows how to take us on an emotional rollercoaster ride.
Despite Australia being only 10 wickets away from their first series win in England in a generation, the series has been anything but a comfortable watch.
Headingley has been the stage for England’s dramatic Ashes victories in the past – in 2019 and 1981. The series scoreline is teetering on the brink of decisiveness, yet the matches have captivated us with every twist and turn. The drama unfolded on Saturday in a time span shorter than it takes for Tom Cruise to complete his latest impossible mission.
England seemed to gain control on the third day after the rain ceased, with four rapid wickets throwing a wrench into Australia’s plans. However, Travis Head – familiar with this ground – replicated Ben Stokes’ performance, ensuring a restless night for all.
Stuart Broad, the usual Ashes hero, ended Head’s onslaught. But the groundwork for England’s possible triumph had been laid earlier by a seemingly forgotten man, Chris Woakes.
Woakes has proved to be a reliable player in England despite a noticeable greying of hair and 15 months out of the squad, fuelled by personal doubts about his return.
Woakes was absent for all of England’s first Bazball summer, after enduring a gruelling winter from 2021-22. But when given another chance, his exceptional performance was rewarded with a jubilant reception.
“I haven’t played in front of an English crowd in years; their roar brings out the emotions in me,” he admitted after the match.
Ahead of this Test, Woakes sought advice from Stokes, now in his first game as captain. Stokes simply advised him to be himself and not worry about field changes, which Woakes did with aplomb.
His dismissal of Carey was his 100th wicket in England. Despite his struggles overseas, he is among the best on home soil.
Woakes’ injuries last summer caused him to miss England’s thrilling chases against India and New Zealand. However, the current target of 251 seems achievable, with England already having scored 27 runs.
But the Ashes series history suggests the reality might be very different.
England needs to win to keep their Ashes dream alive and prevent Australia from clinching their first victory in England since 2001.
“It’s more excitement than nerves,” says Woakes, “Naturally, in a run chase, there are always nerves. But they are good nerves – thinking about winning the Test and staying in the series.”
England can take heart from their 2019 win at Headingley, in which Woakes participated. Stokes ended that game with an unbeaten 135, and his last batting partner, Jack Leach, remained not out on one.
“If I’m batting number 11, I’ll get one not out and let Stokes do the rest,” Woakes joked when asked about a similar scenario.
A repeat performance by 4 pm on Sunday might see fans needing to be carried home from the excitement.
So, brace yourself for another Ashes thriller.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes 2023 Showdown
When and where is the next Ashes 2023 match taking place?
The next match is taking place at Headingley, although the exact date is not specified in the text.
Who are the key players in this upcoming match?
Some key players mentioned include Travis Head and Stuart Broad. Chris Woakes is also noted as a significant contributor for England.
What was the outcome of the last match?
The text does not provide specific details on the outcome of the last match. However, it mentions England’s good start in their chase to keep the Ashes alive and that Australia is only 10 wickets away from a series victory.
What is the series scoreline currently?
The text does not mention the current scoreline of the Ashes 2023 series.
What is the significance of this upcoming match?
This match is crucial as England needs to win to keep their Ashes hopes alive, and a defeat would hand Australia their first victory in England since 2001.
More about Ashes 2023 Showdown
- Ashes Series History
- England Cricket Team
- Australia Cricket Team
- Headingley Stadium
- Ben Stokes’ 2019 Heroics
- Chris Woakes Player Profile
6 comments
Hope Woakes gets a chance to shine again. the lad’s got potential! fingers crossed for a good game.
Headingley again! We’ve seen some epic matches here. this ones gonna be a nail biter for sure. Can’t wait.
this match is going to be one for the history books. i can feel it. bring it on.
Cmon Australia! 10 more wickets to victory. Let’s bring the Ashes home.
Gosh the tension! Ashes series always get me squirming in my seat. love it and hate it at the same time.
Wow, Can’t wait for another England vs Australia showdown. Hoping for a repeat of 2019, Stokes magic! Go England!!