Second Ashes Test heading for a draw

Australia had started the day on 312-5, needing 40 more to avoid the follow-on, but any real hopes of a result faded once they passed the follow-on point in the first hour and both teams resorted to go-slow tactics.

Gilchrist briefly threatened to go on the rampage, racing to his half-century off just 70 balls, but threw his wicket away with the total on 384 when he swept Giles straight to Bell in the deep.

Clarke, once regarded as the golden boy of Australian cricket after making 151 on debut in India then 141 in his first test at home against New Zealand, pressed his claims for a permanent recall with a flawless hundred.

The 25-year-old was only included in the side after all-rounder Shane Watson tore his hamstring before the first test but has enhanced his prospects of holding his spot after two impressive innings.

He batted 319 minutes, faced 224 balls and struck 10 boundaries before falling after tea when he was caught at mid-on off Hoggard in his first full over after tea.

England extended their lead to 97 by the end of day four but lost Alastair Cook for nine along the way to reach stumps on 59 for one on a lifeless pitch still offering little assistance to the bowlers.

Brief scores: England 1st Innings 551 for six decl. and 59 for 1 Strauss 31 batting vs Australia overnight 312/5 513 all out Clarke 124, Gilchrist 64, Hoggard 7/109