Brisbane, December 7, 2025 - England are facing an uphill battle to stay in the second Ashes Test against Australia, as Day 4 commences at the Gabba. After a dominant Day 3 by Australia, England finds themselves in a precarious position, trailing by 42 runs with only four wickets remaining.
Australia resumed Day 3 on 378/6 and built a substantial first-innings lead of 177 runs. Key contributions came from Mitchell Starc, who scored a valuable 77, and Alex Carey, who added 63. Their partnership frustrated the English bowlers and extended Australia's advantage. Brydon Carse was the pick of the England bowlers, claiming 4 wickets.
England's second innings started with Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope forming a steady partnership. However, Michael Neser struck back, removing both players with caught-and-bowled dismissals in quick succession. Joe Root, after his first-innings century, looked promising but fell for 15, caught off Mitchell Starc. England's middle-order collapsed, losing three wickets for just seven runs. At stumps, England were 134/6, with Ben Stokes and Will Jacks at the crease.
Australia's bowlers were in excellent form, with Starc, Neser, and Scott Boland each taking two wickets. Boland's performance was particularly impressive, adding to his figures from the first innings.
As Day 4 begins, all eyes are on Ben Stokes and Will Jacks, who need to form a significant partnership to give England any chance of setting a competitive target. England's batting coach, Marcus Trescothick, has insisted that the team will continue to play aggressively. However, they will need to be more cautious with their shot selection, as several batsmen have fallen to catches behind the wicket.
Australia will be looking to wrap up the English innings quickly and secure a 2-0 lead in the series. The Australian bowlers will aim to exploit the favorable conditions and continue their dominance. Scott Boland, in particular, will be key, hoping to add to his impressive performance in this pink-ball Test.
The weather forecast for Brisbane includes the possibility of showers, which could play a role in the day's proceedings. The first ball of Day 4 is scheduled for 3 PM AEDT.
