Another absorbing and action-packed session unfolded at the Adelaide Oval on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test, perfectly capturing the momentum swings that have defined this fiercely contested series.
Australia added crucial runs in the morning, with Mitchell Starc continuing his fine all-round contribution by registering his second half-century of the series. Useful lower-order support from Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland helped the hosts post a competitive first-innings total of 371. For England, Jofra Archer once again stood out with the ball, producing a hostile spell to claim his fourth five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
In reply, England’s openers showed positive intent, with Ben Duckett looking far more settled than Zak Crawley. Pat Cummins provided the early breakthrough, having Crawley caught behind to halt the opening stand. However, the defining moment of the session belonged to Nathan Lyon.
Making his return after missing the previous Test, Lyon made an instant impact in his very first over. He first removed Ollie Pope and then followed it up with an absolute beauty to bowl Duckett, striking twice in the same over and swinging the momentum firmly Australia’s way. In the process, Lyon went past Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563 Test wickets, becoming Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format.
At lunch, England were 59 for 3, still trailing by 312 runs. With two sessions remaining in the day, Australia will be eyeing further breakthroughs as they look to establish a commanding first-innings advantage.