Key Highlights
- Brydon Carse takes two wickets for Australia in the second Test against England at Brisbane.
- Carse’s quick action helps salvage a poor day with figures of 3-105.
- England adds nine runs to their overnight score but are bowled out for 334.
- Australia’s Alex Carey and Josh Inglis look to counter-attack, reducing England’s lead to single digits.
The Ashes 2025: Brisbane Test Day Two Highlights
Brydon Carse’s quick action in the second innings of Australia vs England at Brisbane has salvaged a poor day with figures of 3-105. The New Zealand all-rounder took his time to concede 100 runs, setting a new record for the quickest any English pace bowler to do so in Test history.
Carse’s Effort
Glenn McGrath, an ex-Australian cricketer and BBC commentator, highlighted Carse’s quick wickets as a turning point. “With those two quick wickets in the 57th over, Brydon Carse has salvaged what would’ve been a poor effort today with figures of 3-105 in 15 overs at 7.0 runs per over,” McGrath stated.
Moreover, Carse’s performance is notable as he took 85 legal balls to concede 100 runs in this innings today. This feat marks the quickest any English pace bowler has taken (in terms of ball bowled) to concede 100 runs in an innings in Test history when ball-by-ball data is available.
England’s Response
Despite Carse’s efforts, England managed to add nine runs to their overnight score but were ultimately dismissed for 334. Jack Leach, the England spinner, sat with BBC Sport live text team Baz and Stokesy during this period. He observed that “the game is a lot closer than it was” after Australia’s dominant position.
England’s fielding has also been questioned, particularly in slip.
Josh Inglis hit four through the cordon before edging a drive on the up to Ben Stokes for four. The England captain has shown signs of exasperation with his fielders, noting that “Ben Stokes smells blood” as he looks to capitalize on any opportunities.
Strategic Insights
Baz and Stokesy provided strategic insights into England’s approach, emphasizing the importance of sticking to a plan in Test cricket. “When you go with a plan it is about sticking to the plan for a sustained amount of time and giving it chance for it to work,” they advised.
Meanwhile, Australia’s Alex Carey and Josh Inglis are looking to counter-attack. With England’s lead down to single figures, breaking this partnership soon could be crucial in moving the game closer. Carse’s three wickets have been a mixed bag, as he has also conceded 105 runs from his 15 overs.
Future Implications
The second day of Brisbane’s Test saw England swing the momentum back their way. With key players like Ben Stokes and England’s slip fielders looking exasperated, there is a clear need for more disciplined performance from all players involved. The game remains in Australia’s favor but the gap has narrowed.
As Elizabeth Botcherby takes over for the close of play, expectations are high that she might provide the Australian side with some much-needed wickets. The battle continues as both teams aim to secure an advantage ahead of day three at the Gabba.
