Brisbane, 7 December (H.S.): Australia stormed to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over England in the second Ashes Test at the Gabba on Sunday, taking a commanding 2–0 lead in the five-match series. Chasing a modest target of 65 runs on the fourth day, the hosts reached 69 for 2 to seal the match comfortably.England, batting in their second innings, were bowled out for 241, giving Australia a target of 65.
The visitors had taken a lead of 64 runs after being dismissed late on Saturday, but the Australian batters made light work of the chase. Steve Smith remained unbeaten on 23 and Jake Weatherald on 17 as Australia crossed the finish line with ease.
The match’s standout performer, Mitchell Starck, played a pivotal role in the victory, claiming 8 wickets overall (6 in the first innings and 2 in the second) and scoring a crucial 77 runs in Australia’s first innings. Michael Neser also impressed, taking 6 wickets, including five in England’s second innings.
For his all-round brilliance, Starck was named Player of the Match.Earlier, England had posted 334 runs in their first innings after electing to bat. Joe Root led the scoring with a superb unbeaten 138 off 206 balls, supported by Zak Crawley (76) and Jofra Archer (38). Australia replied with a commanding 511, securing a 177-run lead. Contributions came from Weatherald (72), Marnus Labuschagne (65), Alex Carey (63), Steve Smith (61), and Mitchell Starck (77).
In the second innings, England’s batting faltered again, with only Ben Stokes (50) and Will Jacks (41) showing resistance. Crawley added 44, but none could convert starts into big scores as the Australian bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Neser (5/58) and Starck (2/40) dismantled the English lineup to put Australia within touching distance of victory.
With this win, Australia extended their dominance in the Ashes, having beaten England by the same margin — eight wickets — in the opening Test.
The third Test of the series will begin on December 17 in Adelaide, where England will aim to keep their hopes alive.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
