England captain Ben Stokes endured a painful and frustrating fourth day as his team's fightback fell short in the second Ashes Test against Australia at The Gabba. The tourists were bowled out for 241 in their second innings, setting Australia a modest target of 65 to win, which they chased down to take a 2-0 series lead.
A Painful Blow and a Stump Mic Moment
The day's most memorable incident involved Stokes himself. During a crucial 96-run partnership with all-rounder Will Jacks that had briefly regained the lead for England, the skipper was struck in a delicate area by a delivery from Australian bowler Michael Neser. The impact sent Stokes crumpling to the ground, much to the amusement of the home crowd.
The stadium's stump microphone clearly picked up Stokes' immediate, expletive-laden reaction, prompting discussion in the commentary box. Former England captain Sir Alastair Cook remarked on the frequency with which Stokes seems to be hit in that area, noting his open batting stance. After a brief visit from the physio, who could offer little practical help, Stokes resumed his innings.
The Partnership and the Collapse
For a period, Stokes and Jacks provided genuine hope of a Headingley-esque revival for England. Their stand took the score from a precarious position to 224 for 6, ensuring Australia would need to bat again. However, the resistance was broken when Jacks, on 41, was brilliantly caught by Steve Smith off the bowling of Neser.
The collapse was swift and decisive. Soon after, Stokes was caught behind by wicketkeeper Alex Carey for Neser's fourth wicket, a major blow to English aspirations. The very next over saw Gus Atkinson dismissed, leaving England nine wickets down with a lead of just 54 runs.
Neser Seals the Deal for Australia
Michael Neser completed a well-deserved five-wicket haul by cleaning up Brydon Carse, ending England's second innings on 241 all out. This left Australia requiring a mere 65 runs for victory, a target they comfortably achieved to win the Test match and strengthen their grip on the Ashes urn.
The result leaves England with a mountain to climb in the series, while Australia celebrates a commanding performance on home soil. The focus now shifts to the third Test, where England must win to keep their Ashes hopes alive.
