The Ashes series continues to deliver drama! The second Test in Brisbane saw England reeling early after a fiery spell from Australia's Mitchell Starc. Starc, swinging the pink ball dangerously, ripped through the top order, leaving England at a precarious 5-2. Ben Duckett was the first to fall, edging to first slip for a golden duck. Ollie Pope followed soon after, chopping onto his own stumps.
Starc Surpasses Akram, Root Nears Century
Starc's early wickets weren't just damaging for England; they also marked a personal milestone. He surpassed Pakistan legend Wasim Akram to become the most prolific left-arm paceman in Test history, reaching 415 wickets.
However, England mounted a spirited fightback, led by Joe Root and Zak Crawley. Root, in particular, looked determined to finally break his century drought in Australia. He and Crawley forged a crucial 117-run partnership, stabilizing the innings after the early collapse. At dinner on day one, England reached 196-4, with Root unbeaten on 68 and Ben Stokes alongside him.
England's Recovery and Lyon's Omission
Crawley contributed a solid 76 before falling. Root's composure and strokeplay were key to England's recovery. The match also saw a surprising selection decision from Australia, leaving out their frontline spinner Nathan Lyon for seamer Michael Neser. This marked the first time in almost 14 years that Australia played a home Test without a frontline spinner.
Both teams wore black armbands in memory of former England batsman Robin Smith, who sadly passed away this week.
- Mitchell Starc's early wickets rocked England.
- Joe Root is closing in on his first Ashes century in Australia.
- Australia surprisingly omitted Nathan Lyon from their lineup.
Can Root finally reach that elusive century? Will England capitalize on their recovery? The Ashes drama is far from over!