Last Updated on 1 year by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Australia’s poor record chasing 250+ scores since 2011 | Australia have struggled when chasing more than 250 in Tests
The 2023 Edgbaston Ashes Test has lived up to its billing, ebbing and flowing magnificently across four days to leave the match tantalisingly poised ahead of the final day. Australia, after a strong start to their 281-run chase, lost three relatively quick wickets to leave them tottering at 107/3, still 174 away from the target.
The match has eerie similarities to the classic 2005 Test. Australia needed 282 to win on that occasion after 407 runs were also scored on day one. Shane Warne, Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz nearly pulled off an incredible win from a losing position, but eventually fell short by two runs in a heartbreaking defeat.
What will happen this time? A late Stuart Broad burst, including the crucial wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, arguably makes England favourites heading into the final day. Another factor that could encourage England fans further is Australia’s poor record when chasing 250+ scores since 2011.
How many 250+ scores have Australia chased down since December 2011?
None.
In 22 such chases since the start of December 2011, Australia have lost 20 and drawn twice. Five defeats and a draw have come in the UK:
- 347-run loss at Lord’s 2013 (target 583)
- 169-run loss at Cardiff 2015 (target 412)
- 135-run loss at The Oval 2019 (target 399)
- 14-run loss at Nottingham 2013 (target 311)
- 74-run loss at Chester-le-Street 2013 (target 299)
- 154/6 in a draw at Lord’s 2019 (target 267)
Conversely, Australia won 16 of 17 when required to chase less than 250 in the same period. It’s another narrative that adds to the drama in a cracking Test match.
Also, only twice has a 280+ total been successfully chased down at Edgbaston. England made a mockery of the 378-run target against India last year, which is the highest successful chase after South Africa chased 283 against England in 2008.
However, one hopes the weather will be kind. Heavy rain is forecast for Tuesday morning in Birmingham, which could see a delayed start. But, the hope is the conditions will clear by the afternoon to provide enough time for Australia to chase the remaining 174 or England to take seven wickets.
