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Day 2 of the third Ashes 2023 Test was full of ups and downs for both England and Australia. The hosts found themselves in deep trouble as Day 2 began, batting at 68 runs for the loss of three wickets, Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow began the day.

England’s woes continued onto Day 2 as well after Root and Bairstow failed to make an impact on the game. Pat Cummins struck early dismissing Root for 19 runs, with Bairstow falling prey to Mitchell Starc for just 12 runs. 

As the pressure started rising for England, the skipper stepped up and played a brilliant innings. Ben Stokes took the crease and amassed 80 runs to give his side a fighting chance. However, the rest of the batters were unable to make as much of an impact. Moeen Ali scored 21 runs, Chris Woakes departed on 10, Mark Wood added 24 runs as England were bundled out for 237 runs.

Coming into bat with a lead of 26 runs, things were not made easy for the Aussies as well. Stuart Broad struck early and dismissed David Warner quite early into the innings. Warner only managed to score one run before he was sent packing. 

Usman Khawaja did show promise but was sent back to the pavilion for 43 runs in 96 deliveries. Australia’s woes continued as Marnus Labuschagne was sent packing for just 33 runs as well.

All eyes were set on Steve Smith as the 34-year-old scored a brilliant ton in the second Test. However, he too was unable to go big and was dismissed for two runs. 

As Day 2 of the third Ashes Test came to a close, Australia found themselves in quite a balanced position. If the middle-order batters are able to score big, then the visitors will look to post a big target for England to chase. 

By the end of Day 2, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh stood at the crease, unbeaten on 18 and 17 runs, respectively as Australia scored 116 runs at the loss of four wickets.