A masterful innings of 160 from Joe Root propelled England to a first-innings total of 384 on day two of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, only for the former captain to later leave the field with a back complaint during Australia's reply.
Root's Masterclass and England's Collapse
Resuming on his overnight score of 72, Root batted with supreme control for nearly seven hours, guiding his side from a precarious position. His efforts were sorely needed after early wickets fell. Harry Brook added just six to his day one 78 before edging Scott Boland behind, and Ben Stokes fell for a duck to Mitchell Starc, the 14th time the Australian has dismissed him in Tests.
Root, however, assessed the conditions perfectly. He brought up his 41st Test century, drawing him level with Ricky Ponting on the all-time list, with a calm push down the ground. He shared significant partnerships with Jamie Smith (94 runs) and Will Jacks (52 runs) to rebuild the innings.
The foundation Root laid, however, was partly squandered by a late-order collapse. England lost their final four wickets for just nine runs, with Michael Neser the chief destroyer, finishing with figures of four for 60. Root was the last to fall, offering a return catch to Neser, and departed to a standing ovation from the SCG crowd.
Australian Charge and Root's Injury Concern
Any English optimism was quickly challenged as Australia's batters took the attack to the bowlers. Under gathering clouds and floodlights, Travis Head played a characteristically aggressive knock, racing to a half-century from just 55 balls. He found a willing partner in Marnus Labuschagne, and the pair put on 105 for the second wicket.
The mood in the England camp darkened further when Joe Root was seen leaving the field clutching his back while Australia were batting. An ECB statement later confirmed he was suffering "some discomfort." Given Root's history of back issues and his mammoth time at the crease, it presented a major concern for the tourists.
The session also saw a flashpoint between Ben Stokes and Labuschagne, with the England all-rounder appearing to admonish the Australian batter after being struck for consecutive boundaries. Stokes had the final say, however, dismissing Labuschagne for 48 just moments later, caught in the gully.
Head Leads Australia's Strong Response
By the close of play, the initiative had firmly swung towards the hosts. Travis Head remained unbeaten on a blistering 91 from just 87 deliveries, becoming the first batsman in the series to surpass 500 runs. Australia finished the day on 166 for two, scoring at nearly five runs an over.
England's bowling, particularly with the new ball, was wayward. Matthew Potts, in his first Test for over a year, proved expensive, while Ben Duckett dropped a catch at square leg. The tourists now face a crucial first session on day three, needing quick wickets to wrestle back control of the match and the final Test of the series.
