Third Ashes Test: England in Deep Trouble as Australia Tear Through Top Order

Adelaide: England’s hopes of staying alive in the Ashes suffered a major blow on Day 2 of the third Test as Australia dismantled their batting lineup, leaving the visitors struggling at 132 for 5 by tea at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday.

Chasing Australia’s first-innings total of 326, England found themselves trailing by 239 runs, with captain Ben Stokes unbeaten on 19 and Jamie Smith on 5, after losing key wickets in quick succession on a pitch considered ideal for batting.

Australia currently lead the five-match Ashes series 2–0 and will retain the urn if they manage a win or draw in this Test, following dominant victories in Perth and Brisbane.

England Collapse After Promising Start

England openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley initially weathered the new-ball spell from Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, giving the impression of stability. However, the calm was short-lived.

In a dramatic 15-ball burst, England lost three wickets for just five runs, a collapse that shifted momentum firmly in Australia’s favour.

Cummins removed Crawley for 9, inducing an edge to wicketkeeper Alex Carey, marking the Australian captain’s first Test appearance since July after recovering from a back injury.

Nathan Lyon Turns the Game

In a decisive move, Cummins introduced Nathan Lyon, who had been controversially omitted from the pink-ball Test in Brisbane. The off-spinner made an immediate impact, claiming two wickets in his very first over.

• Ollie Pope fell for 3, flicking to midwicket
• Ben Duckett was bowled for 29

Joe Root survived briefly after edging Scott Boland, with replays showing the ball touching the turf before settling in Carey’s gloves. However, Root failed to capitalise and was dismissed for 19, edging Cummins again — the 12th time the Australian skipper has removed him in Tests.

Stokes Shows Grit, Brook Falls

With England under pressure, Stokes displayed resilience despite being struck on the helmet by a fierce Starc bouncer. Cleared after medical checks, he continued batting with determination.

However, Harry Brook’s resistance ended at 45, caught behind off Cameron Green, leaving England in serious trouble.

Australia’s First Innings: Carey and Khawaja Shine

Earlier in the day, Australia added 45 runs to their overnight score, finishing on 326 all out.

• Alex Carey starred with a memorable 106 on his home ground
• Usman Khawaja contributed a composed 82

Starc added a quick 54 before being bowled by Jofra Archer, who finished with impressive figures of 5 for 53.

The Australian innings was not without controversy, as Carey benefited from a Snicko technology error when he was on 72. Post-play, Carey acknowledged he likely edged the delivery, with officials later admitting to a technical mistake.

Match Situation at a Glance

• Australia: 326 all out
• England: 132/5 at tea (Day 2)
• Trail: 239 runs
• Series: Australia lead 2–0

England now face an uphill battle to avoid defeat and keep the Ashes alive. Also Read More Sports News