A succession of four hard-fought draws, with Alec Bedser collecting a hatful of wickets and an obstinate Trevor Bailey consistently thwarting Australian ambition, meant the hosts went into the final Test with a chance of regaining the Ashes for the first time in 19 years.

Six days' play were scheduled at the Oval but in the event Len Hutton's bold decision to select two spinners, Jim Laker and Tony Lock, and use them early on in Australia's second innings reaped dividends and England sealed an eight-wicket win in four days - their first series win against Australia since the Bodyline tour of 1932-3.

Commentators: Rex Alston, Bernard Kerr