Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne after his half-century: "It was great. It was tough bowling conditions with the wind. The ball was swinging a bit again but over here they are the conditions you have to get used to. The wicket slowed up after the rain but it was great fun.

"In unforeseen circumstances [Smith's concussion] I got an opportunity. I felt I have been in really good form this summer. I have been able to run with the momentum.

"It is always good when someone of his [Smith's] calibre comes in. It was great fun batting with him, the first time for me. It was really fun.

"To have a loss like that [at Headingley in the third Test] which was in our grasp was disappointing but the way went about the game today we are here and in the contest. We are really keen to secure the Ashes."