England show welcome fight to thwart Australia

England finally showcased their ability to change their strategy by batting through the initial session on day four of the second Ashes Test, ensuring Australia will need their second innings.

Following a dismal performance on the third evening, England commenced the fourth day at 134-6, 43 runs behind the home team in Brisbane.

However, captain Ben Stokes led by example alongside number eight Will Jacks in a cautious, unbeaten partnership of 65.

Stokes, who started the day with four runs from 24 balls, reached 36 from 112 deliveries at the interval. Jacks progressed from four off nine balls to 25 off 66.

England fought to 193-6, taking a lead of 16 runs. Though the adaptability shown by Stokes and Jacks was appreciated, it rendered the collapse of the England top-order on Saturday evening even more frustrating.

Having batted together for 26.3 overs, Stokes and Jacks formed England’s longest partnership of the series thus far.

This marked the only session across the first two Tests where no wickets fell.

Stokes’ resolve was reminiscent of the start of his legendary match-winning innings at Headingley in 2019.

With a scoring rate of 2.45 runs per over, this seventh-wicket partnership was the slowest among England’s 164 stands of over 50 since Stokes became captain in 2022.

«I’m loving this strategy from England. Fantastic session of play,» tweeted former England captain Michael Vaughan on X.

With their leading seamers neutralized, Australia resorted to part-time bowlers Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne, each bowling an over before lunch.

Australia will have a second new pink ball available for the second session, likely arriving just as the floodlights take effect during the day-night Test.

«For the first time, the Australian bowlers had to genuinely strive for their wickets,» remarked former England captain Sir Alastair Cook on TNT Sports.

Former Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, also speaking on TNT Sports, added: «What might make Australia a bit anxious is that Ben Stokes is now accustomed to the wicket. Time and time again, he thrives in big moments. He enjoys being the hero.»

«It will be intriguing to see how Australia approaches Ben Stokes now, whether they throw some verbal jabs or short balls at him. They’ve been nice thus far and avoided confronting him. They need to get him out of his comfort zone.»

Former bowler Steven Finn stated that this tactic would have likely pleased England coach Brendon McCullum.

«They were steadfast. They were resolute and focused,» said Finn. «They had a clear strategy but didn’t just sit back. When Australia’s bowlers erred, they capitalized.

«Undoubtedly, the batting conditions were much more favorable, but their defense was impeccable, keeping the scoring at bay.

«Brendon McCullum was asked earlier this year about his vision for the team to recognize situations in games and adjust accordingly. This has not been seen often enough, but Stokes and Jacks executed it masterfully today, which will undoubtedly please McCullum.»