England showed resilience late on day two of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane but still face a steep challenge after letting multiple chances slip. Australia currently lead by 44 runs in a match dominated by missed opportunities and brilliant individual moments.

Match Summary: England vs Australia, Second Test

• England 1st innings: 334 all out
  • Top scores: Joe Root 138, Harry Crawley 76
  • Bowler of note: Brydon Carse 3-113
• Australia 1st innings: 378-6
  • Top scores: Jake Weatherald 72, Marnus Labuschagne 65, Steve Smith 61
  • Bowler of note: Ben Stokes 1-??

England’s early resistance of 334 runs looked strong, but Australia capitalized on five missed chances, allowing hosts to gain control.

Carse Inspires England Late

Durham seamer Brydon Carse sparked a late revival for England under the Brisbane lights. In a single over, Carse removed Cameron Green (45) and Steve Smith (61) thanks to a spectacular catch from Will Jacks. Ben Stokes then bowled Josh Inglis, ending a critical Australian partnership.

Despite Carse conceding 113 runs from 17 overs, his aggressive spell and short-ball tactics gave England a rare glimmer of hope on an otherwise testing day.

Australia’s Batting Momentum

Australia, led by Jake Weatherald (72) and Marnus Labuschagne (65), established a strong platform, with Smith anchoring the innings. England’s fielding lapses, including drops from Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, and Jofra Archer, allowed Australia to accelerate under the pink ball.

Off-spinner Will Jacks bowled just one over, but his match-turning catch off Carse’s delivery was a highlight of the evening session.

England’s Position

At the close of day two, England face a daunting task against Mitchell Starc and a disciplined Australian attack. While the tourists showed fight under lights, their inability to hold simple catches and capitalize on key moments leaves them vulnerable as Australia looks to take the initiative in the Ashes series.

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Key Highlights

• Joe Root 138 keeps England competitive despite poor fielding.
• Brydon Carse’s late spell removes Green and Smith, giving England hope.
• Australia miss fewer chances overall and recover strongly with Weatherald and Labuschagne.
• England trails by 44 runs with potential Starc magic looming on day three.

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What to Watch Next

England must regroup for day three at the Gabba. Starc’s pace and swing under the floodlights could determine whether the tourists can stay alive in this 2025-26 Ashes series.