Australia on Brink of Disaster as England Seize Control
Joe Root’s unyielding resistance sparked a resurgence for England, as he brought up his second century of the series, defying Australia’s attempts to mount a comeback. The visitors’ hopes of staging a miraculous recovery were dealt a severe blow in the morning session on Day 2, as their top order crumbled under the pressure. The turning point came when Root, who shared an impressive 169-run stand with Harry Brook, had the Australian bowlers pegged back once again. But Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc soon broke through, halting the English charge and reducing the team to a precarious 336-6 at lunchtime. The stage was set for a thrilling afternoon session, but England’s advantage seemed insurmountable, with Root’s unshakeable form and the visitors’ waning momentum casting a long shadow over Australia’s prospects.