You've urned it: England, led by Andrew Strauss celebrate at the SCG
Session one: Australia 281.
England headed to the SCG looking for a quick kill to secure another innings victory and a 3-1 series triumph but they were frustrated by rain and some dogged resistance from Australia’s Peter Siddle and Steve Smith. After downpours in the morning, play started on time but the players were forced off after just 21 minutes. They returned 36 minutes later and England were made to wait for their first breakthrough. But it came when Peter Siddle (43) skied spinner Graeme Swann to James Anderson in the deep. England took the new ball soon after and Anderson induced Ben Hilfenhaus into a nick behind to wicketkeeper Matt Prior for seven. That brought Michael Beer to the crease and England needing just one wicket to complete a memorable victory. Before that Steve Smith does his own future Test prospects no harm by reaching a half-century. But Chris Tremlett finishes off an innings and 83-run victory by bowling Beer.
Verdict: Do I have to tell you?
Test in a tweet: ‘Rain can’t stand in England’s way as they finish the job in style to complete Australia’s humiliation. 3-1. Job done.’
Facebook friend: Andrew Strauss.
Today he became only the third man to lead England to home and away Ashes victories and can take great credit for such a comprehensive series victory. He may not be his side’s top scorer but along with coach Andy Flower he has led this side in exemplarity fashion. They have led and everyone else has followed. Superb job.
Unfriend: When you witness England winning an Ashes series in Australia for the first time in 24 – and in such a comprehensive manner – the world is a good place and you don’t feel like picking on anyone. It’ll be a good night in Sydney.
Gift of the day: Showing the same generous spirit as Australia's bowlers, authorities at the SCG made entrance to ground free of charge on the final day. The overwhelming majority of the 17,000 in attendance were English.
Party of the day: Pick any bar in Sydney, they will all be rocking tonight with celebrating Englishmen, myself included.
Stats a fact: This is the first time in 135 years and 730 matches that Australia have lost three Tests in a series by an innings.
Download of the day: The Last Post (for Australian cricket) which Barmy Army trumpeter Bill Cooper piped up with just before Tremlett sealed victory with the wicket of Beer.