ENG vs AUS 2nd Test, Ashes 2023: The ongoing Ashes match between England and Australia saw a total of 359 runs made and 9 wickets fall on an exciting second day at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Despite losing wickets early on, Steve Smith’s exceptional century was the day’s highlight and helped Australia build an important lead.
Australia scored a flurry of runs to start the day as Steve Smith showcased his outstanding batting prowess. Smith dominated the English bowling attack as he quickly reached his record-breaking 32nd Test century.
However, England came back and continued to acquire wickets. Josh Tongue, making his Ashes debut, impressed with the ball, getting his third wicket by removing Smith for a solid 110 from 184 deliveries. The final Australian wicket fell to Ollie Robinson, and the team was ultimately bowled out for 416 runs.
With a challenging target in front of them, England started out strong. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, the team’s openers, gave them an impressive start.
Duckett (98) exhibited his excellent strokeplay but unfortunately fell terribly short of a well-deserved century, leaving the pitch with just two runs remaining. Ollie Pope (42) and Joe Root (10), both were victims of Australia’s short-pitched deliveries, which put England in an untenable situation.
England Batters Reduce 1st Innings Deficit to 138 Runs
However, Ben Stokes (17*) and Harry Brook (45*) showed incredible composure and resilience in facing off the Australian Bowlers. Even though Brook played a few bad shots, England was able to hold their own.
Stokes, who is known for his ability to cope with tough situations, gave the English innings consistency. Together, they survived the challenging phase of the game and led their team to a respectable total.
The England team total at the end of Day 2’s play was 278 runs at the loss of four wickets. They’re currently 138 runs behind Australia. The match hangs in the balance and promises an exciting contest that could continue all the way to Day 5, just like the first Test.
ENG vs AUS 2nd Test Day 2 Highlights:
Brief scores: Australia 416 (Steve Smith 110, Travis Head 77; Josh Tongue 3-98, Ollie Robinson 3-100) lead England 278/4 (Ben Duckett 98, Zak Crawley 48, Harry Brook 45*; Nathan Lyon 1-35) by 138 runs
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