England's hopes in the second Ashes Test were dealt a blow on day two at the Gabba as five dropped catches allowed Australia to build a lead of 44 runs. The visitors closed on 378 for six after being 291 for three, with Alex Carey and Michael Neser adding a late flurry. Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith were each responsible for two drops, compounding their ducks on day one.
Brydon Carse had a mixed day, taking two wickets but conceding 113 runs from 17 overs and dropping a simple chance off Neser. Jofra Archer finished with one for 74, with drops off Travis Head and Neser costing him. Jamie Smith dropped a simple chance off Head on three, and later failed to move for a chance off Carey on 25.
Despite the errors, England remain in contention. Ben Stokes saw Josh Inglis given a life by Duckett on 23, then dismissed him two balls later. Marnus Labuschagne made 65, while Jake Weatherald top-scored with 72. Alex Carey was unbeaten on 46, having earlier been dropped by Duckett at gully.
Two exceptional catches stood out: Marnus Labuschagne's diving effort to remove Jofra Archer for 38, and Will Jacks' full-stretch catch at backward square to dismiss Steve Smith for 61. England were bowled out for 334, with Joe Root stranded on 138 not out.
