The mood at the Gabba shifted dramatically on the second day of the pivotal day-night Ashes Test, as England's early optimism was replaced by familiar frustration, despite a late fightback that keeps the contest alive.
Australia Seize Control Amid English Profligacy
After the euphoria of Joe Root's unbeaten 138 on day one, England's attack struggled for consistency, serving up a buffet of loose deliveries that allowed Australia's batsmen to feast. The hosts, resuming after England's first innings total of 334, quickly wiped off the deficit thanks to aggressive batting from Jake Weatherald (72) and Travis Head (33).
The tone for a day of missed opportunities was set early when Jamie Smith dropped a chance offered by Head off Jofra Archer. While not ultimately costly for that wicket, it sparked a flurry of runs that saw Australian momentum build.
Chaotic Evening Session Offers England Lifeline
As the pink Kookaburra ball and the Gabba lights took full effect, the game descended into chaos. England's fielding woes continued, with Ben Duckett dropping two crucial catches at gully – reprieving both Alex Carey and Josh Inglis.
Amid the spills, fast bowler Brydon Carse provided a dramatic twist. In the space of four balls, he removed two well-set batsmen: firing a yorker to dismiss Cameron Green for 45 and then benefiting from a spectacular one-handed catch by Will Jacks to send Steve Smith back for 61.
Ben Stokes also chimed in, clean bowling Inglis, but the damage from the drops was significant. At stumps, Australia had reached 378 for six, securing a lead of 44 runs, with the unbeaten Alex Carey (46*) and Michael Neser (15*) set to resume.
Test Delicately Poised After Frenetic Day
The day ended with the match intriguingly balanced. England will be bitterly disappointed with their fielding, knowing a sharper performance could have seen them in a far stronger position. However, the late cluster of wickets, which turned 291-3 into 378-6, ensures they are still very much in the fight.
Archer's figures of one for 74 belied his effort, while the decision to bowl him through a long spell just as the lights became most potent raised questions. For Australia, the foundation laid by Weatherald, Smith, and Green has given them a slight edge, but they will be aware that their lower order must now push the lead beyond England's reach on day three.
