It will be fitting if we can finish this great series with a result Richie Benaud

Given England's form, Benaud is surprised his countrymen still have a chance of hanging on to the famous urn.

He told the BBC: "The astonishing thing is that if they win at The Oval, Australia will retain the Ashes.

"England were by far the better side at Edgbaston and Old Trafford - and then again at Trent Bridge."

Benaud, who will commentate on his last match in England during the fifth Test at The Oval, says he believes the current series is even better than the one he commentated on in 1981.

Benaud is a living legend, as a commentator and player From Doc Have your say on TMS

The Aussies scraped a last-ditch draw at Old Trafford, where the weather played a part, but were beaten narrowly at Edgbaston and again at Trent Bridge last week, giving the hosts a 2-1 advantage.

The series began with a landslide Lord's win for the tourists.

Many England fans would give up their eye teeth for a draw at The Oval, but Benaud sees it very differently.

"What I really hope is that someone wins at The Oval," he said as he prepares to end a 40-year stretch commentating on England's home series.

"I want to see either England or Australia win the match. It will be fitting if we can finish this great series with a result."

One thing he is convinced of is that - whatever happens at The Oval - Australia will soon be back to their best.

"England are certainly on the up, and the Australia selectors have some work to do," he said.