🔗 Share this article Neser's Key Scalps Prior to Australia Cruise to Two-Zero Ashes Series Advantage Against England Over a span of three hours, England's Ben Stokes threatened to produce a repeat of the legendary knock that etched his reputation into Ashes folklore. While Headingley 2019 is remembered for its explosive finale, the foundation of stubborn resistance upon which it was built is frequently overlooked. "These are the moments he thrives on," noted Ricky Ponting as Stokes awaited his entry to the crease. The tourists' predicament entering the fourth day at the Brisbane's Gabba was similarly precarious, needing 43 runs to make Australia to bat again with only 6 remaining wickets. However, at dusk, with the floodlights on, Stokes's defiant stand was ended. Seamer Michael Neser, operating to an unusual field setting, found the edge, and gloveman Alex Carey completed a sharp catch standing up. This rounded off a superb display of glovework from Carey and extinguished any remaining home side anxieties. Stokes walked off for a hard-fought 50 runs from 152 deliveries, his dismissal all but sealing England's fate. A Target Wiped Out Soon after, The Australian team had chased down the paltry target of 65 runs, securing an comprehensive eight-wicket win in just 10.2 overs. This outcome gave them a commanding two-nil series advantage, a situation that looks increasingly foreboding for England with three Tests remaining. The all-rounder's effort, combined with a determined 41 from tailender Will Jacks, represented an impressive effort at redemption on one level. Australia offered precious little, delivering excellent lines and lengths on a tricky surface providing variable bounce. Dominance in Crucial Areas However, it underscored the significant disparities between the sides. The fielding side has been outclassed in the catching area, dropping 5 chances during the home side's first innings of 511. In contrast, their opponents were flawless, summed up by a remarkable one-handed catch by Steve Smith to dismiss Jacks. Additionally, England were outsmarted by their hosts, who expertly manipulated the pink-ball circumstances. There was a last English error before their total of 241 concluded: Gus Atkinson, a capable lower-order player, fell to a poor pull shot directly to a fielder. "His dismissal ranked among the most gormless on this trip," commentary noted, highlighting a short-ball trap that was seemingly deliberately walked into. Looking Ahead The two sides now have a extended pause before the third Test in Adelaide. Joe Root's men once again forced to undertake serious reflection, while Pat Cummins's squad are poised to pose more problems. With comebacks of Pat Cummins and off-spinner Nathan Lyon only bolster an formidably powerful side.