Third Ashes Test: Australia and England player ratings

Jake Weatherald – 2 – Quiet game after a promising start to his Test career. It would be possible for England to exploit an Australian weakness if the Ashes had not already been lost.

Travis Head – 8 – Any glimmer of hope England might have had for a century from South Australia’s favorite son was snuffed out in the second innings. Upgrading the head to open the batting is a crucial moment in the outcome of the series.

Marnus Labuschagne – 5 – No real contribution with the bat, but each gets an extra mark for two sensational catches at second slip. There’s still a nagging doubt that he’ll get a big score before the end of the series.

Othman Khawaja – 7 – He took his chance after Steve Smith fell ill, albeit through the life of Harry Brock. He should keep his place in Sydney.

Cameron Green – 4 – He was unable to perform to match his huge price tag in the Indian Premier League and finished two places too high. He got the important wicket for Brook in the first innings.

Alex Carey – 8 – Challenge Mitchell Starc as player of the series. He loses a point because it should have been awarded in the first round.

Josh Inglis – 4 – No. 32 mattered as England felt the momentum on day one, but did not fully convert to their chances. That could be pressured when Smith returns.

Pat Cummins – 7 – How has this guy not played since July? Instantly into the groove with relentless precision. Once again captain of the Ashes winner.

Mitchell Starc – 6 – Not touching the heights of the first two Tests, despite bowling at great pace in the first innings and taking key wickets for Jimmy Smith and Will Jacks on the final day.

Nathan Lyon – 6 – He broke England’s resistance with a hat-trick on the fourth night, but suffered a hamstring injury on the final day. Could be out for this series.

Scott Bolland – 6 – The unsung hero of Australia’s attack continues to press when the Stars are resting. He will be in the conversation for a rest in Melbourne, the place where he destroyed England four years ago.