Can Australia Overcome England's 384 After Day 2?
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Synopsis
As Australia battles to chase down England's 384, Travis Head's incredible performance is key. With 91 not out and a strong partnership with Labuschagne, can Australia close the gap? Follow the thrilling action as the series unfolds at the Sydney Cricket Ground!
Key Takeaways
- Travis Head leads Australia with an unbeaten 91.
- Marnus Labuschagne adds a solid 48.
- Australia ends Day 2 at 166/2.
- England scored 384 in their first innings.
- Joe Root shines for England with 160.
Sydney, Jan 5 (NationPress) Travis Head's stellar performance of 91 not out along with Marnus Labuschagne's contribution of 48 helped Australia reach 166/2 at stumps on Day 2, as they chase England's 384 at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday.
Head is closing in on a 12th Test century and his third of this series, having formed a brisk 105-run partnership with Labuschagne during the evening session. Australia remains behind by 218 runs, with Head and nightwatcher Michael Neser (1*) still at the crease.
England concluded their innings at 384 after 97.3 overs. Joe Root celebrated his 41st Test century, equaling the legendary Ricky Ponting. Resuming at 72 not out, Root elevated his score to an impressive 160, leading England to their highest total of the series.
On Monday, England resumed from 211/3. In just the third over, Harry Brook fell for 84, concluding his 169-run partnership with Root, just short of his maiden Ashes century.
Shortly after, England captain Ben Stokes was dismissed for a duck, caught by wicketkeeper Alex Carey from a delivery by Mitchell Starc, marking the 14th time Stokes has fallen to Starc in Test cricket. Although ruled not out by the on-field umpire, a review showed a faint edge, resulting in Stokes's dismissal.
Root maintained his composure, reaching triple figures with a powerful punch down the ground, while Jamie Smith was given a second chance after a no-ball by Cameron Green.
Steve Smith then employed a short-ball strategy with Labuschagne, which proved effective as Smith's attempted shot went straight to Scott Boland, ending their 94-run stand with England at 336/6 at lunch.
Post-lunch, England continued to accumulate runs as Will Jacks and Root contributed swiftly, with Root achieving 150. However, Australia fought back after drinks with key dismissals by Michael Neser and Cameron Green.
Neser sent Jacks back to the pavilion, and Green caught Brydon Carse edging to keeper Alex Carey. Neser then executed a spectacular caught-and-bowled to dismiss Root and followed it up with another wicket, taking out Josh Tongue. England crumbled, losing their last four wickets for a mere nine runs, ultimately bowled out for 384.
Brief Scores: England 384 (Joe Root 160, Harry Brook 84; Michael Neser 4-60, Scott Boland 2-85) lead Australia 166/2 (Travis Head 91*, Marnus Labuschagne 48; Ben Stokes 2-30) by 218 runs.
Point of View
This match showcases the resilience of the Australian team as they respond to England's formidable total. While England's strong batting performance, led by Joe Root's century, sets a challenging target, Australia's promising start with Head and Labuschagne signals an exciting continuation of the match. The dynamics of this rivalry remain captivating as both teams look to seize the advantage.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of England's first innings?
England scored 384 runs in their first innings.
Who scored the highest runs for Australia on Day 2?
Travis Head scored 91 not out for Australia on Day 2.
What is the current score of Australia?
Australia is at 166 for 2 at the end of Day 2.
Who took the most wickets for Australia?
Michael Neser took 4 wickets for 60 runs.
How many runs does Australia need to surpass England's total?
Australia needs 218 runs to surpass England's total.
