Root and Brook show how the Ashes were meant to be

England reach 211-3 on shortened first day of the fifth Test

- CAMERON PONOSBY IN SYDNEY

It’s too late, England. We’re already hurt.

By far their best day of the tour, arriving with the series lost and more than six weeks after the first ball was bowled in Perth. On day one in Sydney, Joe Root cruised to 72 not out, while Harry Brook slashed to an unbeaten 78. Together, the pair put on an undefeated 154. Look, everyone, here's what you could have won.

Nevertheless, for one afternoon, one of cricket's greatest pleasures occurred. That of when your team is batting, and you don't have to watch.

For the first time this series, England fans in Sydney could gaze off into the distance. Safe in the knowledge that Root was dropping the ball at his toes for a single. They could catch up with a friend, ask how they were, then quickly glance over their shoulder as Root ran one down to third for another. In the queue for a coffee and the roar that interrupted them was that bit quieter. That's not a wicket. Brook must have punched one for four. Bliss.