Australia wrapped up their first innings at 371 all out in 91.2 overs, putting themselves in a strong position on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval.
The innings was anchored by a magnificent century from Alex Carey, who once again proved his value in pressure situations. Batting in familiar home conditions, Carey absorbed the early blows before counterattacking with composure and authority. His 106 was the defining knock of the innings and helped Australia recover from a couple of precarious moments in the middle session.
Usman Khawaja, recalled at the last minute after Steve Smith was ruled out, justified his inclusion with a calm and controlled 82, providing stability at No. 4 when Australia needed it most. His partnership with Carey steadied the innings after a mini-collapse and ensured the hosts did not squander a good batting surface.
Lower down the order, Mitchell Starc continued his excellent series with the bat, contributing a valuable 54, his second fifty of the Ashes, as Australia pushed past the 350 mark. Support from Pat Cummins and Scott Boland further frustrated England late in the innings.
For England, Jofra Archer was the standout performer, finishing with an impressive five-wicket haul. He consistently troubled the Australian batters with pace, bounce and movement, and fittingly claimed the final wicket of Nathan Lyon via LBW to complete his five-for. Despite Archer’s efforts, England struggled at times to maintain control, allowing Australia to rebuild repeatedly.
Australia’s total of 371 represents a solid platform on a pitch that has offered good bounce and carry but little margin for error. With momentum on their side after Carey’s hometown heroics, attention now turns to England’s reply and whether they can match Australia’s first-innings authority in a must-win Test for the visitors.
