🔗 Share this article Neser's Crucial Wickets Prior to Australia Cruise to Two-Zero Ashes Series Advantage Against England For a period of three hours, England's Ben Stokes seemed poised for a repeat of the legendary innings that etched his name into cricketing history. While that famous Leeds innings is recalled for its blistering finish, the foundation of unyielding resistance upon which it was constructed is frequently forgotten. "These represent the occasions he thrives on," noted former captain Ricky Ponting as Stokes awaited his entry to the wicket. England's predicament entering the fourth day at the Gabba was similarly dire, trailing 43 runs to make Australia to bat a second time with only six wickets in hand. Yet, at 5.50pm, under the stadium lights illuminating the field, Stokes's defiant stand was ended. Michael Neser, operating to an unusual field setting, took the edge, and wicketkeeper Alex Carey completed a sharp take standing up. This capped a sublime exhibition of wicketkeeping from Carey and extinguished any remaining home side anxieties. Stokes departed for a hard-fought 50 runs from 152 deliveries, his dismissal all but sealing England's defeat. A Target Wiped Out By 7.30pm, Australia had chased down the modest required total of 65 runs, achieving an comprehensive eight-wicket victory in just 10.2 overs. This outcome gave them a commanding two-nil series advantage, a situation that looks increasingly foreboding for the visitors with three Tests left to play. The all-rounder's innings, combined with a spirited 41 runs from tailender Will Jacks, represented an admirable effort at atonement on one front. The bowlers offered very little, delivering impeccable line and length on a difficult pitch providing inconsistent bounce. Superiority in Crucial Departments However, it highlighted the glaring disparities between the sides. England was second best in the fielding area, dropping five opportunities during the home side's massive first innings of 511 runs. In contrast, Australia were clinical, summed up by a stunning one-handed grab by Steve Smith to dismiss Jacks. Additionally, The tourists were outsmarted by Australia, who expertly used the day-night circumstances. There was one final visiting error before their innings of 241 ended: Gus Atkinson, a capable lower-order player, succumbed to a ill-advised hook shot directly to a Smith. "That wicket ranked with the most gormless of the tour," the analysis noted, pointing out a short-ball trap that was almost deliberately walked into. Looking Ahead The two sides now have a extended pause before the third Test in Adelaide. Joe Root's men are left needing to reflect, while Australia will only ask more problems. The likely comebacks of Pat Cummins and spinner Lyon will further strengthen an formidably powerful side.