Clarke insists Australia can stage Ashes escape

NOTTINGHAM: Australia captain Michael Clarke said his side had it in them to complete one of the great Ashes comebacks after England ended the fourth day of the first Test poised for victory.

The tourists were 174 for six at Trent Bridge come Saturday's close, still needing a further 137 runs on Sunday's final day with just four wickets standing to go 1-0 up in this five-match series against Ashes-holders England.

Shortly before stumps, Australia lost three wickets for three runs with Clarke's exit for 23 sparking the slump.

However, teenage debutant Ashton Agar was still there on one not out after being promoted from last man to No 8 following his first innings 98 -- the highest score by a Test No 11.

"Ashton showed in the first innings he's got plenty of talent and with the experience of Brad Haddin (11 not out) and the other players that are left to bat, I think we can give it a real shake," said Clarke.

Clarke is just one of three survivors, along with England's Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell, from the celebrated 2005 Ashes Test at Edgbaston when Australia, who ended the third day on 175 for eight chasing 282, got within a hit of victory before England squeezed home by two runs.

"We're still a fair way away but I think the way we've seen the roller coaster of Test cricket go up and down for the past four days, anything is possible on Sudnay," Clarke said.

This match, as well as producing some enthralling cricket, has also been bedevilled by several umpiring controversies. (AFP)