Adelaide, December 18, 2025 — England finds itself in a precarious position after the second day of the third Ashes Test at Adelaide, trailing by 158 runs as they look to fight back in a challenging scenario. Despite valiant efforts from Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, Australia maintained control, leaving the visitors with a mountain to climb on Day 3.
The day began with Mitchell Starc contributing a handy half-century as Australia extended their total to 371, with England’s bowlers unable to make a significant breakthrough. In reply, England started confidently on a solid batting track, but Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon struck early. Zak Crawley was dismissed by Cummins, and Lyon claimed two quick wickets, leaving England reeling at 42/3. Joe Root survived a caught-behind appeal, offering brief resistance.
The afternoon session saw England further collapse under consistent Australian bowling. Root and Stokes managed a 59-run partnership, showing resilience on a softening pitch, but Scott Boland quickly dismantled the lower middle order, reducing England from 159/5 to 168/8. Archer provided the only resistance alongside Stokes, forming a responsible 45-run alliance late in the day.
The final session was marked by Snicko controversies, with Jamie Smith surviving a contentious review before eventually being dismissed, frustrating the English camp. England’s struggle was evident as Australia bowled with control, hitting the right areas and maintaining pressure throughout.
On the Australian side, Nathan Lyon reflected on the tough conditions, praising his teammates, particularly the fast bowlers, for putting Australia in a strong position. He described the day as physically demanding but rewarding, adding that he would likely need an ice bath after the effort.
As England looks to reduce the deficit, Australia holds a commanding position with the Ashes firmly in their sights. Day 3, the so-called “Moving Day,” is scheduled for Friday, December 19, with the first ball at 11:30 pm GMT.