🔗 Share this article

For a span of three hours, England's Ben Stokes was hinting at a repeat of the iconic knock that etched his name into Ashes folklore. While that famous Leeds innings is recalled for its blistering finale, the bedrock of unyielding defence upon which it was built is frequently overlooked.

"These are the occasions he thrives on," observed former captain Ricky Ponting as Stokes awaited his entry to the wicket.

The tourists' situation entering the fourth day at the Gabba was similarly precarious, needing 43 runs to force the hosts to bat again with only 6 remaining wickets. However, at dusk, with the floodlights on, Stokes's defiant stand was ended. Seamer Michael Neser, bowling to an attacking field setting, found the edge, and gloveman Alex Carey held a sharp take standing up.

This capped a superb display of wicketkeeping from Carey and extinguished any lingering Australian anxieties. Stokes walked off for a hard-fought 50 runs from 152 balls, his exit all but confirming England's defeat.

A Chase Easily Overhauled

By 7.30pm, Australia had chased down the paltry required total of 65 runs, securing an eight-wicket win in just 10 overs. This outcome gave them a dominant 2-0 lead, a situation that appears increasingly ominous for England with three matches remaining.

The all-rounder's effort, combined with a determined 41 from tailender Will Jacks, represented an impressive effort at atonement on one front. The bowlers offered precious little, bowling impeccable lines and lengths on a difficult surface offering inconsistent bounce.

Superiority in Key Areas

Nevertheless, it highlighted the significant differences between the teams. The fielding side was second best in the fielding area, spilling 5 chances during Australia's first innings of 511 runs. By contrast, their opponents were flawless, epitomized by a remarkable one-handed catch by Steve Smith to dismiss Jacks.

Additionally, The tourists were out-thought by Australia, who masterfully used the day-night circumstances. There was a last visiting error before their innings of 241 concluded: Gus Atkinson, a capable batsman, fell to a ill-advised pull shot directly to a fielder.

"His dismissal ranked with the most gormless on this trip," commentary noted, highlighting a bouncer plan that was almost wilfully walked into.

Looking Ahead

Both teams now take a extended pause before the third Test in Adelaide. Joe Root's men once again needing to undertake serious reflection, while Australia will only pose tougher questions. The likely comebacks of skipper Cummins and spinner Lyon only bolster an formidably powerful team.