Australia delivered a commanding performance to defeat England by 10 wickets in the second Ashes Test at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. This emphatic victory on the fourth day, Friday, December 4, 2025, gives the visitors a formidable 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The win was set up by a brilliant five-wicket haul from captain Pat Cummins and a resilient batting effort, leaving England with a mountain to climb.
Dominant Australian Bowling Seals the Deal
Starting the day at 145 for 6, England's hopes rested on skipper Ben Stokes and the lower order. However, Pat Cummins led from the front with a devastating spell of fast bowling. He ripped through the English tail, finishing with impressive figures of 5 for 42 in 19 overs. His relentless accuracy and pace proved too much for the hosts, who were bundled out for just 180 in their second innings.
This left Australia with a meagre target of 5 runs to win the match. The opening pair of Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith strolled out and knocked off the required runs in just 1.1 overs without any fuss, securing a comprehensive 10-wicket triumph. England's second innings collapse was a stark contrast to their fight in the first Test.
Steve Smith's Masterclass and England's Missed Chances
The foundation for Australia's win was laid earlier in the match. After bowling England out for 283 in the first innings, the Australian batters responded strongly. The cornerstone was a magnificent century from the experienced Steve Smith, who scored 120 runs. His innings was a blend of patience and classic strokeplay, guiding Australia to a significant first-innings lead.
England had their moments, notably a fiery spell from Mark Wood who took 4 wickets. Veteran pacer James Anderson also reached a personal milestone, claiming his 700th Test wicket during the match. However, these efforts were not enough to counter the consistent pressure applied by the Australian team across all departments.
Series Context and What Lies Ahead
With this victory, Australia has taken a stranglehold on the Ashes series. A 2-0 lead with three matches to play puts immense pressure on the English side, who must now win all remaining games to reclaim the urn. The third Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley in Leeds on December 12, 2025.
England will need to regroup quickly and find answers to Australia's potent bowling attack, especially the form of Pat Cummins. For Australia, the confidence will be sky-high as they look to retain the Ashes on English soil. The performance at Lord's demonstrated their clinical edge and ability to seize key moments, making them firm favourites to win the series from here.
