Been watching the match on the Guardian site since I got up..... a few excellent updates to give a taste of the day...
115th over: Australia 421-4 (Smith 182, M Marsh 100) Broad ushers Marsh closer to his first Test hundred with a short, wide delivery that is flashed through backward point for four. That takes him to 96, and a fast-handed square drive for four brings up a brilliant maiden century! Well played Mitchell Marsh! He snaps his head back and lets out a primeval roar. Wonderful stuff.
That was a memorable celebration. He coudn’t get his helmet off fast enough; he was like a horny virgin in a teen film, frantically undressing lest the moment pass. Jonny Bairstow was among the England players to applaud a classic Waca hundred, full of emphatic cuts and straight drives. It took just 130 balls, with 17 pristine fours. And with that, it’s time for tea.
Then...
It’s been England’s session: they restricted Australia to 107 runs in the session for the loss of no wick- oh I can’t be bothered. Australia have been brilliant, England’s have been broken.
Finally...
126th over: Australia 460-4 (Smith 200, M Marsh 121) That’s it! Smith works Moeen to leg to reach an immense, inevitable double-century. It’s been a masterpiece of authority, ruthlessness and skill. He is an absolute genius, the best Test cricketer in the world by a million miles. And statistically, he is the greatest batsman since Don Bradman. Just let that marinate for a bit.
Right, off to do some shopping with just under 2 hours of the day left.... what's to say Australia bat for another hour and get 520 or so and then put England in.... 45 for 3 when I get back???