Overview
- Joe Root’s 160 underpinned England’s 384, his 41st Test century to draw level with Ricky Ponting on the all-time list.
- Australia closed day two on 166-2, 218 behind, with Travis Head unbeaten on 91 from 87 balls and Michael Neser in as nightwatchman on one.
- Michael Neser led Australia’s attack with 4-60, including a diving caught-and-bowled to remove Root before bowling Josh Tongue two balls later.
- England’s new-ball pair leaked runs and two drops on Jake Weatherald helped Australia accelerate, while Ben Stokes struck twice to dismiss Weatherald lbw and Marnus Labuschagne for 48.
- Root later left the field with lower-back discomfort, the ECB said, adding an injury concern to England’s sloppy finish.