The Gabba witnessed a fiery exchange as Australia dominated England, securing a commanding eight-wicket victory and a 2-0 lead in the Ashes series. England’s hopes for a series win in Australia, a feat untouched since 2010/11, suffered a crushing blow on the fourth day of a relentlessly one-sided contest.
Despite a resilient century from Joe Root offering a glimmer of hope, Australia swiftly extinguished it with a formidable first innings total of 511. This impressive score, the fifth-highest in Test history without a single individual century, relentlessly pressured the English side.
England’s response of 241 only yielded a meager 64-run lead, a deficit Australia erased with ruthless efficiency in just ten overs. Steve Smith, finishing on 23 not out, sealed the win with a powerful six off Jofra Archer’s bowling.
Standing in as captain for the injured Pat Cummins, Smith rediscovered his formidable form, particularly igniting a familiar rivalry with Archer. Their past encounters in the 2019 Ashes are already legendary, and this match added another intense chapter.
The tension escalated as Archer unleashed a barrage of bouncers at a visibly fired-up Smith. Words were exchanged, a clear indication of the simmering animosity between the two players.
Smith’s words, captured by the stump microphone, were pointed: “Bowl fast when there’s nothing going on, champion.” The remark clearly aimed to unsettle Archer, and the exchange lingered throughout the over.
Despite the on-field heat, a sense of respect prevailed as the dust settled. Smith and Archer were seen shaking hands shortly after Australia’s victory, acknowledging the fierce competition with sportsmanship.
The match underscored Australia’s dominance and Smith’s return to peak performance, while simultaneously reigniting a captivating rivalry that continues to enthrall cricket fans worldwide.
