England are battling to redeem their Ashes campaign in Brisbane, with Joe Root eyeing a crucial century after a dramatic start to the second Test. The visitors, shellshocked by a humiliating two-day defeat in the first match, reached 196-4 at tea on day one at the iconic Gabba stadium, fighting back from a precarious 5-2.
Early Carnage and Steady Recovery
The day-night Test began in nightmare fashion for Ben Stokes's side, mirroring their first Test collapse. Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc struck twice early, removing openers Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks to leave England reeling at 5-2. The hosts, led by stand-in skipper Steve Smith, were hunting another brutal victory.
However, a defiant partnership between Zak Crawley and Joe Root shifted the momentum. The pair attacked with intent, finding a quick tempo to guide England to 98-2 at the first interval. Crawley's aggressive 76 provided the initial impetus before he fell after lunch.
Root Holds the Key Under Lights
As the Brisbane sunset gave way to the floodlights and the pink ball began to move more, Joe Root stood firm. The former captain brought up a vital half-century and remained unbeaten, forming a growing partnership with skipper Ben Stokes. The pair navigated a tricky period against a resurgent Australian attack, with Michael Neser and Starc causing problems.
The session was not without further loss. Harry Brook, who had made a brisk 31, fell to Starc, edging to slip just as the evening session began. His dismissal brought Stokes to the crease, who survived some nervy moments before unleashing a couple of trademark boundaries.
Team Selection and Tactical Shifts
The match saw significant selection drama on both sides. England's captain Ben Stokes made the painful call to drop spinner Shoaib Bashir, opting for all-rounder Will Jacks as the sole change, replacing Mark Wood. For Australia, captain Pat Cummins was again absent, and veteran Nathan Lyon was sidelined. Pink-ball specialist Michael Neser was preferred, while Josh Inglis replaced the experienced Usman Khawaja.
With the game finely poised, England will hope Root can convert his start into a first century of the series in Australia, a milestone that would put significant pressure on the hosts. The final session under lights will be critical in determining who gains the upper hand in this must-win Test for the tourists.
