Australia Go 2–0 Up After Controlling Crucial Moments
Australia delivered yet another commanding performance to claim an eight-wicket victory in the second Ashes Test in Brisbane on December 7 (Sunday). While the match featured its fair share of momentum shifts, England failed to capitalise on the key pressure moments, allowing the hosts to take control and extend their series lead.
England posted a respectable 334 in the first innings but let the game slip by conceding 128 runs for the final three Australian wickets—a passage of play that proved extremely costly. Their second innings followed a similar pattern, with wickets falling regularly and the visitors eventually setting Australia just 65 runs to win, a target the hosts chased with ease.
Despite falling 0–2 behind in the five-match Ashes series, captain Ben Stokes remains defiant. He insists that England are far from a weak side but must quickly address the critical moments that continue to define their performances. Stokes said after the match that Australia have consistently outperformed England during pressure situations—an area his team must improve if they hope to turn the series around.
Stokes Confident England Can Recover From 0–2 Deficit
Reflecting on England’s current situation, Stokes noted that the team has experienced being 0–2 down in the Ashes before and understands the challenge ahead. He expressed unwavering belief in his players, coaches, and support staff, emphasising that the team knows exactly what must be done to stay alive in the series.
Stokes admitted that England have repeatedly allowed games to drift after regaining control, particularly in small but decisive passages of play. He described the inability to withstand pressure as “very disappointing,” especially considering the talent within the squad. The skipper, who scored a determined fifty in England’s second innings, called for deeper reflection, stronger mental preparation, and greater resilience in crucial moments.
With three matches remaining, England must regroup quickly. The third Test begins on December 17 in Adelaide, and Stokes made it clear that his side will not shy away from the battle ahead. He is confident England can correct their mistakes and mount a strong comeback in their quest to bring the Ashes back home.
