England force first test into last day

BRISBANE, Nov 26 (Reuters) England were 293 for five in their second innings at the close on the fourth day of the first Ashes test against Australia today.

Kevin Pietersen was unbeaten on 92 with wicketkeeper Geraint Jones not out 12 but England were still in deep trouble after Australia declared with an overall lead of 647.

Australian captain Ricky Ponting closed Australia's innings on 202 for one less than half an hour into the first session after Justin Langer reached his 23rd test hundred.

Australia looked on course to wrap up victory with a day to spare after picking up three early wickets before Pietersen and Paul Collingwood (96) added 153 for the fourth wicket.

REUTERS PM PM1322