Australia tightened their grip on the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, finishing Day 2 with a significant 44-run lead over England. The hosts, powered by aggressive half-centuries from Jake Weatherald and Steve Smith, ended the day at 378 for 6, comfortably surpassing England's first-innings total of 334. With the Gabba pitch expected to deteriorate, this lead could prove decisive as the match progresses.
Australia's Commanding Batting Response
The day belonged to the Australian batsmen, who responded with intent after England were bowled out early in the morning session. Opener Jake Weatherald set the tone with a brisk 72 off just 45 balls, showcasing confident strokeplay. He was ably supported by Marnus Labuschagne, who scored a fluent 65, and stand-in captain Steve Smith, who looked in complete control during his knock of 61.
Australia appeared to be cruising at 291 for 3 before England's Brydon Carse provided a crucial breakthrough. Carse dismissed the well-set Cameron Green for 45 and then removed Smith in the same over, both falling to England's short-ball strategy. This double strike gave the visitors a glimmer of hope under the lights.
England's Missed Opportunities and Root's Resilience
Despite the late wickets, England's day was marred by inconsistent bowling and four dropped catches, which allowed Australia to build momentum. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey, who remained unbeaten on 46 at stumps, was dropped twice—once on 0 and again on 25.
Earlier in the day, England's innings concluded at 334, adding only nine runs to their overnight score. The innings was anchored by captain Joe Root's magnificent unbeaten 138—his maiden Test century on Australian soil and his 40th overall. Root's knock, which included a vital 70-run last-wicket partnership with Jofra Archer (38), was the cornerstone of England's total.
Looking Ahead to Day 3
As the teams head into the pivotal 'Moving Day', Australia will aim to extend their lead significantly. The unbeaten partnership between Alex Carey (46*) and Michael Neser (15*) will be key. For England, the task is clear: take the remaining four Australian wickets quickly and then bat with purpose in their second innings on a wearing pitch.
Reflecting on the day's play, Marnus Labuschagne highlighted the importance of ending the day with wickets in hand. Meanwhile, a defiant Joe Root insisted his team is "well and truly" still in the contest, urging his bowlers to come out with energy on Day 3. The match hangs in the balance, but the advantage firmly lies with the hosts, who already lead the series 1-0.
