England have finally taken the second new ball for the first time in the ongoing Ashes series, hoping to break Australia’s momentum on Day 3 of the second Test at the Gabba. Australia, already in control of the match, continued to build their lead with Alex Carey leading the resistance alongside Mitchell Starc after the dismissal of Michael Neser.
At the time England opted for the harder, new Kookaburra, Australia had moved to 408/7 in 81.5 overs, stretching their advantage to 74 runs. Carey, batting fluently on 60 off 66 balls, was playing a crucial innings under pressure and had guided Australia through a tricky phase. Mitchell Starc, giving him solid support, contributed 14 off 22 balls with a composed approach.
England’s hopes rest heavily on the new ball pairing of Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson, who have bowled with discipline but lacked breakthroughs in the previous spell. Archer has figures of 1/75 from 20.5 overs, while Atkinson has taken 1/80 from 19 overs. The fresh ball presents their best chance to swing momentum back in their favour as the match edges deeper into the third day.
Australia, meanwhile, continue to dictate terms after posting 334 in the first innings and now stretching their overall lead beyond 70. With plenty of time left in the Test, the hosts will aim to push the advantage further before England begin their second-innings battle.
The match remains delicately poised, but for now, Australia hold the upper hand — and England will hope the second new ball sparks the breakthrough they desperately need.