Eman 
ZeeaK 
Day two of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba saw Australia successfully nullify England’s solid first-innings total before launching an aggressive counterattack, securing a vital first-innings lead.
At the close of play, Australia stood at 378 for 6, leading England’s total of 334 by 44 runs.
England’s Batting Ends Quickly
England, resuming their innings (inferred from Day 1), added only a handful of runs before being bowled out for 334. Joe Root was the last man dismissed (inferred). While Root’s century on Day 1 provided resilience, the lack of lower-order support meant the total fell slightly short of what was expected on the surface.
Australia’s Calculated Response
The home side’s innings was marked by steady contributions and a devastating middle-order acceleration that completely changed the complexion of the match.
Stable Platform: Following early wickets, the experienced middle order, anchored by Marnus Labuschagne (inferred score) and Steven Smith (inferred score), absorbed the pressure, setting the stage for the power hitters.
The Inglis Counter: The decisive shift came with the entry of Josh Inglis. He played a superb, aggressive innings, falling just ten runs short of a century with 90 runs off 85 balls. Inglis expertly targeted the English bowlers, ensuring the run rate remained high.
Late Partnerships: After Inglis’s dismissal to Ben Stokes, wicketkeeper Alex Carey (46 not out) and Michael Neser (15 not out) constructed a rapid 49-run partnership in just 55 deliveries, frustrating the tired English attack and pushing the score past England’s total.
Bowling Efforts: England’s bowlers toiled hard throughout the day. Jofra Archer was disciplined (1/74 off 20 overs), while Gus Atkinson maintained an economical pace (0/78 off 18 overs). However, the attack suffered from the absence of a top-tier spin option to control the run rate on the slowing surface.
Australia’s ability to seize the lead on Day 2 puts immense pressure on England, who will need a major effort with the ball early on Day 3 to prevent the lead from becoming insurmountable.da
IMAGE CREDITS: MY CRICKET HIGHLIGHTS 2
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