An eventful passage of play lit up the third session at the Gabba as Brydon Carse produced a dramatic over that turned the momentum in England’s favour. Australia, cruising comfortably with Cameron Green and Steven Smith at the crease, suddenly found themselves under pressure as Carse struck twice in quick succession.
The over began with Carse bowling Green for 45 off 57 balls, the Australian all-rounder backing away once too often before a full, fast delivery rattled his stumps. Just two balls later, Smith followed, edging a sharp rising delivery to Will Jacks at gully. Smith’s 61 off 85 balls had been crucial, but Carse’s extra bounce forced the mistake, and England celebrated a massive breakthrough.
There was nearly a third wicket in the same over when Alex Carey pushed at a short, sharp delivery that ballooned towards gully. Ben Duckett moved swiftly and got his fingers under the ball, but it popped out at the last moment, denying Carse what would have been an unforgettable double-wicket maiden.
Despite the missed chance, the over shifted the energy of the match instantly. From a position of authority, Australia suddenly slipped to 292 for 5 in 56.4 overs, trailing England by 42 runs. Carse, who had leaked runs earlier in the innings, returned with renewed rhythm and aggression, lifting both England and the crowd.
The Ashes 2025 contest continues to deliver drama, and Carse’s fiery burst has added another twist to a gripping battle at the Gabba.
