Overview
- At stumps on day two, Australia were 166-2 in response to England’s 384, trailing by 218 with Travis Head unbeaten on 91 alongside nightwatchman Michael Neser on 1.
- Joe Root’s 160 was his 41st Test hundred, drawing him level with Ricky Ponting on the all-time list and marking his second century of the series.
- Michael Neser led Australia’s attack with 4-60, including a diving caught-and-bowled to dismiss Root, before bowling Josh Tongue two balls later.
- England’s wayward bowling and dropped chances aided Australia’s surge, though captain Ben Stokes removed Jake Weatherald lbw and had Marnus Labuschagne caught for 48 after a heated exchange.
- Root left the field during Australia’s innings with back discomfort according to the ECB, raising a fitness concern for England.