Mitchell Johnson was recalled to the team after being dropped in the last test. What a decision it proved to be, with Johnson blowing England’s batting order to pieces.
England were unable to sustain the constant threat from fast bowlers Ryan Harris (6-47) and Mitchell Johnson (3-44) as Australia won by a massive 267 runs.
England Captain Andrew Strauss expressed his disappointment after the game. He said; "It's a very disappointing defeat, no doubt about it. We came fully expecting to play the same brand of cricket that we played in Adelaide."
He added, wistfully, "We were in a great position after bowling them out for 268 and then being 70-odd for none in reply. The batting in both innings was sub-par. But we have to retain a sense of perspective. This result doesn't make us a bad team overnight.
"We need to retain the confidence we built from the first two Tests and come out all guns blazing in Melbourne. Now is not a time for panic. It is important to retain the method that's worked well."
