The Ashes: Miracle-chasers England ready to defy the odds against Australia

LONDON: James Anderson has warned Australia that England still believe they can get a shock victory in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide this morning.
The tourists began earlier today needing 178 more runs with six wickets in hand to pull off a record 354-run chase. While the hosts are still favorites, the idea that England would have even a sniff of victory was remote until the last session on the third day —   Anderson and Co. had a 215-run first innings deficit.
But having not enforced the follow-on Australia were all out for 138 to give Joe Root’s (pictured) team a chance of an unlikely victory.
“We knew we would have to chase a big total and it would always be a big ask but we know the pitch is good to bat on. It is a case of building partnerships and being ruthless,” Anderson, who took five for 43 in Australia’s second innings, said.
“Three down at the close would have been amazing. Losing Dawid (Malan) was tough, but absolutely we’d take this after the first innings.
“Going with Chris Woakes as nightwatchman was the sensible option. He’s a proper batsmen — hopefully he can get something going with Joe Root. There’s never been that doubt in our dressing room. We know we can fight. After the first two innings, we were really frustrated — and there was a bit of anger. We’ve done ourselves proud.”