The excitement of claiming Aussie run-machine Steve Smith was all too much for England skipper Ben Stokes with an insane dropped catch on the stroke of Lunch at The Oval.

Fans’ minds were cast back to Herschelle Gibbs at the 1999 World Cup against Australia as Stokes inadvertently pulled off his best impression in the fifth and final Ashes Test.

Despite a splendid first hour for the hosts, England were on the back foot as Smith and Travis Head got the deficit under 150.

However, in the penultimate over before the long break, Moeen Ali got an offie to spit out of the wicket and grab Smith’s glove.

The ball ballooned into the air.

The English skipper timed his jump to perfection at leg slip, stretching out his hand and snatching the ball.

But he went the early crow, bringing the ball down and attempting to throw it back up in celebration in one go.

His hand brushed his knee, knocking the ball loose and onto the floor.

Bizarrely, England chose to review the ball to ensure Smith gloved it.

The final day of the Ashes was also hit by controversy early in the day as former Australian player Cullum Ferguson lashed the umpires for a “disgraceful” ball swap.

Two overs before rain struck on day four, England’s dud first ball was replaced after striking Khawaja’s helmet.

However, the replacement, meant to be as similar to the current one as possible, looked near-new and had England in love as it seamed and swung around corners when play resumed on day five.

The ball claimed Warner, Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne before calming down with age.