The much-anticipated 2nd Check of the Ashes series between Australia and England kicked off on the iconic Brisbane Cricket Floor on December 4, 2025. Taking part in a day-night match beneath pink-ball circumstances, the 2 cricketing giants clashed once more, with intense battles unfolding each with the bat and ball. The Gabba pitch supplied honest help to the bowlers early on, resulting in a gripping contest that captivated followers worldwide. Australia aimed to capitalize on their momentum after the primary Check, whereas England appeared to stabilize and construct on their innings.
Alex Carey grabs a screamer to dismiss Gus Atkinson on Day 1
One of many standout moments got here late within the day when Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey showcased distinctive athleticism and reflexes to pluck a rare catch. At 66.2 overs, Mitchell Starc delivered a full-length supply to England’s Gus Atkinson, who top-edged the ball. Each Carey and Marnus Labuschagne sprinted again shoulder-to-shoulder, diving for the flying ball. In a spectacular show of talent and composure, Carey secured the catch working backwards, wrapping his gloves firmly across the ball regardless of the difficult trajectory and excessive pace.
The catch was so distinctive that officers even checked if the ball had clipped the Spidercam wires above the sector, but it surely was deemed clear. This pivotal wicket gave Starc his fifth of the innings and shifted the momentum firmly in Australia’s favour as they bowled England out for 264/8 at that stage.
Right here’s the video:
#MitchellStarc baggage his fifth wicket however what a take from Alex Carey, sprinting again, diving full stretch and holding on beneath strain! 🤯💪
Even Marnus couldn’t consider it! #AUSvENG | THE ASHES | 2nd Check, Day 1 | LIVE NOW 👉🏻 https://t.co/w23M3vjJal pic.twitter.com/h09gZuO1Cz— Star Sports activities (@StarSportsIndia) December 4, 2025
Additionally WATCH: Josh Inglis’ stunning direct hit sends Ben Stokes packing on Day 1 of the Pink-Ball Test
England dominate with Joe Root’s maiden ton in Australia on the opening day
On the batting entrance, England dominated nearly all of the day on the Gabba, reaching a commendable 325/9 at stumps. Joe Root was the standout performer, crafting a affected person and masterful innings of 135 runs off 202 balls, together with 15 boundaries, which marked his maiden Check century in Australia and his fortieth total. Root’s innings stabilized England after an early scare the place key batters Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope fell cheaply to Mitchell Starc. Root adeptly married protection and assault, rotating the strike and punishing unfastened deliveries whereas companions round him struggled to construct partnerships.
Zak Crawley supplied robust help with a well-compiled 76 earlier than succumbing to Michael Neser. Different contributions got here from Harry Brook (31), Ben Stokes (19), and Will Jacks (19), however the decrease order, together with Atkinson and Brydon Carse, faltered beneath Starc’s relentless bowling. England’s innings noticed a number of crucial partnerships, together with a 117-run stand for the third wicket between Crawley and Root, however Starc’s six-wicket haul and Carey’s spectacular wicketkeeping ensured Australia stored the strain on.
With Jofra Archer unbeaten on 32* and Root nonetheless on the crease at stumps, England ended the day with stable momentum on the scoreboard however dealing with a strong Australian bowling assault beneath lights. The pink ball’s affect and the Gabba’s quick, bouncy circumstances promise an enthralling contest on this Ashes battle for supremacy.
Additionally READ: Ashes 2025-26: Fans go wild as Joe Root smashes maiden Test ton on Australian soil
