England Extend Australia's Embarrassment in the Ashes by Batting for Sentiment

Batting for sentiment is a quaint notion in cricket. It generally occurs when a really, really good side plays a really, really bad side. England were allowed that unforgivable luxury by Australia on the fourth day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's.

Having already amassed more runs than what was needed, England opted to return to the crease on the fourth morning, in order to allow Joe Root to try and get his 200. Australia responded by refusing to take the new ball and forcing the Yorkshireman to work pretty hard for his runs.

Root couldn't get there and was dismissed for 180, which immediately brought the declaration. Australia had a mammoth task ahead. After overcoming the embarrassment of allowing a side to bat for sentiment, they had to somehow find a way to survive the day. 

At least they were safe from the potential embarrassment of suffering their largest-ever defeat. Although, that wouldn't stop them from trying to embarrass themselves.

Australia's top order folded almost as soon as they walked out, and it looked like they wouldn't even last until lunch.  Then, Michael Clarke and Usman Khawaja, briefly, made it look possible. They combined for a 99-run partnership which showed just how possible it was to score runs on the track. 

England would need the extra half hour in the end in order to clinch the win, but it hardly mattered. Australia were well and truly beaten by the end of day four. They now have a few days off and a warm-up match in Sussex to rethink their strategy before heading to Old Trafford.

While little can be be done about the disastrous top order, the biggest question will remain over Ashton Agar. Although he was picked for his bowling during the first Test at Trent Bridge, he impressed with the bat, his bowling was average at best. On a track which offered a little bit more for the tweakers, Agar couldn't do much.

That Nathan Lyon did not get an opportunity to come into this Test is a shame. Old Trafford is likely to turn and will have plenty in it for Lyon. A team cannot rest their hopes on one player alone, but at least Lyon might be able to actually fill the role of spinner. Agar, no doubt will be brilliant one day, he's just not brilliant now and Australia need some brilliance if they have any hope left in this series.