England find themselves deep in trouble in the third Ashes Test, ending Day 2 at 213/8, as Australia maintain a commanding position. Another day of domination by the hosts has left England chasing a steep deficit, though captain Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer provided a gritty resistance with a 45-run partnership late in the day.
The day began quietly for Australia, who added 45 runs to their overnight score, finishing at 371, thanks to a half-century from Mitchell Starc. England’s Jofra Archer was the standout with the ball, claiming five wickets with pace and precision.
England’s reply started smoothly but quickly deteriorated as the returning Australian stars struck immediately. Captain Pat Cummins removed Zak Crawley early, followed by Nathan Lyon, who picked up two wickets in his first over, leaving England 42/3. Joe Root survived a close caught-behind appeal, providing a brief reprieve.
Cummins continued to tighten the screws, dismissing Root at 71/4, while Stokes and Brook stitched a 59-run partnership, showing some resistance. However, a clever bowling change introducing Green broke the partnership, sending England to 127/5 deep in the afternoon.
The final session saw England’s middle and lower order collapse amid controversial calls. Jamie Smith survived one decision via technology, but was later dismissed in another close call, frustrating the English side. Stokes battled cramps but remained at the crease, displaying bravery and defensive skill. Scott Boland finished the day by claiming quick wickets of Will Jacks and Brydon Carse, reducing England to 168/8 before Archer joined Stokes to add some late resistance.
Australia hold a dominant position, with England just two good balls away from further trouble, while Stokes and Archer remain the last barrier to a total Australian advantage.
Scorecard
Australia 1st Innings: 371 all out
Alex Carey 106
Usman Khawaja 83
Mitchell Starc 54
Jofra Archer 5/53 (20.2 overs)
England 1st Innings (stumps Day 2): 231/8
Ben Stokes 45*
Jofra Archer 30*
Pat Cummins 3/54 (14.0 overs)
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