England's hopes of retaining the Ashes are hanging by a thread after a disastrous batting performance on the second day of the third Test in Adelaide on Thursday, 18 December 2025.
Tourists Capitulate in Perfect Conditions
Already trailing 2-0 in the series after defeats in Perth and Brisbane, England's batting lineup crumbled once more, managing a timid 213 for eight in reply to Australia's first-innings total of 371. The surrender was particularly galling given the near-perfect batting conditions, with a benign pitch, a fast outfield, and temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius.
Captain Ben Stokes provided the only prolonged resistance, grinding out an unbeaten 45 from 151 deliveries in a defiant rearguard action reminiscent of his effort in Brisbane. However, his vigil was conducted in visible discomfort, with the all-rounder suffering from cramp and mobility issues, raising concerns over his ability to bowl in Australia's second innings.
Australia's Bowling Heroes and DRS Controversy
Australia's attack, led superbly by returning skipper Pat Cummins, exploited England's frailties. Cummins, playing his first competitive match since July after back trouble, bowled with relentless accuracy to claim three for 54. Spinner Nathan Lyon, recalled after being dropped in Brisbane, enjoyed a landmark day, overtaking Glenn McGrath's tally of 562 Test wickets to become Australia's second-highest wicket-taker of all time.
The day was again marred by confusion over the Snickometer technology within the Decision Review System (DRS). England's Jamie Smith was involved in two disputed decisions, surviving one and falling to the other, which further eroded confidence in the tool and sparked calls for its immediate review.
England's Top Order Fails Again
England's day began poorly, conceding 45 quick runs for Australia's final two wickets, despite Jofra Archer finishing with an excellent five for 53. Any momentum was swiftly squandered as the top order folded. Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, and Ben Duckett were all dismissed within 15 balls before lunch, reducing England to a desperate 10 for three.
Joe Root had a life on one, reprieved after a tight DRS call for a possible caught behind, but he could only add 18 more before nicking Cummins to wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Harry Brook offered brief hope with a disciplined 45, including a stunning six over cover, but fell to Cameron Green just before tea.
With Stokes dug in at one end, Scott Boland removed Will Jacks and Brydon Carse. Archer's lively 30 not out provided late support, but at the close, Australia's commanding lead of 158 runs left England's Ashes destiny looking ominously clear.
