Jake Weatherald’s explosive maiden Test fifty powered Australia into a commanding position on Day 2 of the pink-ball Ashes Test, as the hosts closed on 378 for 6, leading England by 44 runs.
Weatherald smashed 72 off 78 balls in a fearless opening burst, setting the tone before Marnus Labuschagne (65) and Steve Smith (61) strengthened Australia’s grip with composed half-centuries. Australia strung together 50-plus partnerships for their first four wickets for the first time in ten years, capitalising on an England attack that leaked runs and shelled five catches.
England fought back late under the lights, with Brydon Carse removing Cameron Green and Smith in the same over to momentarily lift their spirits. But Alex Carey and Michael Neser steadied Australia with an unbroken stand after earlier breakthroughs from Stokes and Archer.
Earlier in the day, England added just nine runs to their overnight total, finishing on 334, driven by Joe Root’s unbeaten 138 and a 70-run last-wicket stand with Jofra Archer. But once Australia’s openers settled, England’s discipline crumbled, allowing the hosts to surge into the lead and control the tempo heading into Day 3.
Australia now look firmly on top, with momentum, runs, and conditions all in their favour at the Gabba.
