Ashes 2023: Australia took a slender 12-run lead at stumps on Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test after a fine batting performance from Steve Smith.
Smith scored 71 off 112 balls, his first half-century of the series, as Australia recovered from 130-5 to post 295 all out. Marnus Labuschagne (40) and Travis Head (38) also made useful contributions, but England’s bowlers were largely impressive, with Stuart Broad taking 2-45 and Chris Woakes 3-66.
England responded by reaching 35-0 at the close, with Rory Burns (24) and Zak Crawley (11) unbeaten.
The day began with Australia on 33-1, but they lost four wickets in the morning session, including Labuschagne and Head to Broad.
Smith and Cameron Green (28) then put on a 57-run partnership, but Green was dismissed by Woakes before tea. Smith continued to bat well after tea, but he was eventually caught by Joe Root off the bowling of Mark Wood.
Australia lost their last five wickets for just 45 runs, but they will be pleased with their position at stumps.
Also Read: Ultimate Table Tennis 2023: Goa Challengers and Chennai Lions Set to Battle for the Title
The match is evenly poised, with England needing to bat well on Day 3 to take control.
Key moments
- Steve Smith scores 71 off 112 balls, his first half-century of the series.
- Stuart Broad takes 2-45 and Chris Woakes 3-66 as England’s bowlers impress.
- Australia recover from 130-5 to post 295 all out.
- England reach 35-0 at the close, with Rory Burns and Zak Crawley unbeaten.
What’s next?
Day 3 of the fifth Ashes Test will begin at 11:00am GMT on Saturday, July 29.