Ashes 2023: Day 3 Updates – Aus Leads by 142, Rain Delays Play
Late Key Wickets Give England Hope in Ashes Series.
England’s hopes of staying competitive in the Ashes series were reignited with crucial wickets towards the end of the day during the must-win second test. At the close of day two, Australia stood at 116-4 in their second innings, holding a lead of 142 runs.
Captain Ben Stokes once again showcased his heroics, almost single-handedly closing the gap to Australia’s first innings total with a remarkable innings of 80. England’s innings concluded at 237, thanks largely to Stokes’ explosive batting.
During a challenging period with England struggling at 142-7 at lunch, Mark Wood emerged as a ray of hope after the break. Wood’s quick-fire 24 off just eight balls brought the hosts closer to Australia’s total, leaving Stokes in awe at the other end.
However, Wood’s aggressive approach eventually led to his dismissal, caught after attempting one big shot too many. This marked Australian skipper Pat Cummins’ first five-wicket haul in England. Nonetheless, Stokes took up the mantle of big hitting, reaching his half-century with an enormous shot.
With key wickets falling late in the day and Stokes’ heroic performance, England has rekindled their chances in the Ashes series, providing an exciting prospect for the upcoming days of play.
