Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground saw a decisive swing in momentum, as Australia fought back strongly after England’s Joe Root had earlier produced a batting masterclass.
Resuming at 211/3, England were eventually bowled out for 384, a total that appeared slightly underwhelming on a flat SCG surface. Root anchored the innings superbly with a magnificent 160, while Harry Brook’s 84 laid the platform late on Day 1. Contributions from Jamie Smith and Will Jacks helped England push the total past 350, but a late collapse — seven wickets for 158 runs, including a final slide of 5 for 61 — handed momentum back to the home side, according to a BBC Sport report.
Australia’s bowlers showed far greater discipline than on the opening day. Michael Neser led the attack with an impressive four-wicket haul, while Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland picked up two wickets each. Cameron Green and Marnus Labuschagne also chipped in, ensuring England’s lower order could not fully capitalise on the platform laid by Root.
In reply, Australia began positively through Jake Weatherald and Travis Head, who put on 57 runs for the opening wicket. Weatherald was trapped LBW by Ben Stokes for 21, but Head continued to dominate with his trademark aggression.
The left-hander found an able partner in Labuschagne, with the pair adding 105 runs and negotiating the tricky final session with composure. Labuschagne fell late in the day, but Head remained unbeaten, producing a scintillating 91 off 87 balls that neutralised England’s bowlers and shifted the balance firmly in Australia’s favour.
At stumps, Australia reached 166/2 in 34.1 overs, trailing by 218 runs with eight wickets in hand. With the pitch still offering little assistance, the hosts are well placed to press for a crucial first-innings lead on Day 3, while England will reflect on a missed opportunity despite Root’s brilliance.
End of Day 2 – Scorecard
England 1st Innings: 384 all out
Joe Root 160, Harry Brook 84
Neser 4/69, Starc 2/93, Boland 2/85
Australia 1st Innings: 166/2 (34.1 overs)
Travis Head 91* Weatherald 21, Labuschagne 47
Ben Stokes 2/30
Australia trail by 218 runs with 8 wickets in hand
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