Overview
Joe Root ended his century drought in Australia with a masterful unbeaten 135 guiding England to a competitive 325/9 on the opening day of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane. Despite early setbacks Root resilience and late support from Jofra Archer stabilized England innings.
 |
| Joe Root celebrates his century during the second Ashes Test at Brisbane. Image Source: Instagram/@root66 — Edited & Modified by Us |
England enjoyed a strong opening day in the second Ashes Test at the Brisbane Cricket Ground largely thanks to Joe Root long awaited century on Australian soil. The senior batter delivered a composed and authoritative innings that helped England recover from a disastrous start.
England Stumble Early After Winning the Toss
England captain Ben Stokes decided to bat first on a pitch that looked ideal for run scoring. However the innings began in sharp contrast to that plan when Mitchell Starc struck twice in quick succession.
Starc removed both Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks leaving England rattled at 5/2 within the opening overs.
Root and Crawley Rebuild Under Pressure
A Crucial 117 Run Stand
With England in early trouble Joe Root joined opener Zak Crawley and the pair immediately took charge of stabilizing the innings. They batted with discipline and confidence putting together a vital 117 run partnership that steered England out of danger.
Crawley contributed an impressive 76 off 93 balls striking 11 boundaries before falling to Michael Neser who had him caught behind shortly after lunch.
Middle Order Effort and Sudden Collapse
Root Holds Firm as Wickets Tumble
Root continued to anchor the innings forming a valuable 54 run stand with Harry Brook. Brook chipped in with a brisk 31 off just 33 deliveries before Starc returned to dismiss him.
The middle order struggled to maintain momentum and England slipped into another collapse losing five wickets for 54 runs to slump to 264/9. Despite the pressure Root maintained his composure and reached a well deserved century ending his long drought in Australia.
Archer Late Cameo Helps England Finish Strong
Root and Archer Steady the Ship
Jofra Archer joined Root at the fall of the ninth wicket and played a confident cameo smashing an unbeaten 32 from only 26 balls. His proactive approach provided crucial support for Root allowing England to cross the 300 run mark without further losses.
Root ended the day unbeaten on a magnificent 135 off 202 balls decorated with 15 fours and a six.
Australia Bowlers Shine Starc Leads the Charge
Mitchell Starc was the standout performer for Australia claiming a superb six wicket haul for 71 runs. Scott Boland and Michael Neser took one wicket each though Australia struggled to dislodge Root as he held England innings together.
England closed the day at 325/9 giving them a valuable foothold as the match progresses.