India, Jan. 7 -- Jacob Bethell's maiden Test century at the Sydney Cricket Ground didn't just keep England alive in the fifth Ashes Test - it gave a bruising tour a rare moment of composure. With Australia pushing for a 4-1 series finish after piling up 567 in the first innings, Bethell's unbeaten 142 ensured day four had meaning.

England still finished 302 for 8 and only 119 ahead, but the left-hander's stand dragged the match into a fifth day and forced Australia to earn it the hard way.

The innings also produced one of the more memorable bits of live TV this summer. On TNT Sports, former Australia coach Justin Langer couldn't hide his delight as Bethell was welcomed into the conversation.

"Ah, guess what, my boyfriend's coming. My b...