Australia secured an emphatic eight-wicket win over England in the Brisbane day-night Test on Sunday. The victory gives the hosts an ominous 2-0 lead in the Ashes series. Captain Steve Smith sealed the win by hitting a huge six, chasing down the modest target of 65 in just 10 overs.
Smith praised his team’s pivotal performance. He noted the game turned when Australia extended its first innings to secure the new ball under lights. “It can be tricky with the pink ball,” Smith said. “You have to adapt quickly.”
Despite avoiding another two-day defeat, England faced a comprehensive outplaying in every department. Their batting, barring resistance from Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Stokes, and Will Jacks, featured rash strokes on a bouncy Gabba pitch.
England’s bowling also faltered. They pitched too short and wasted the new ball, unlike an Australian attack missing Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Furthermore, five dropped catches in Australia’s first innings compounded their troubles, in contrast to Australia’s flawless fielding.
Absolutely emphatic by the Aussies, sealed with a six from Steve Smith 💪
Scorecard: https://t.co/VRsMzvlE6q pic.twitter.com/rRNkJipQ3s
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) December 7, 2025A brilliant Josh Inglis run-out of Ben Stokes in the first innings proved a critical momentum shift.
England began day four facing a daunting deficit. Captain Ben Stokes and Will Jacks then mounted a patient, fighting partnership. They defied the Australian pace attack for two sessions on a fiercely hot day, adding crucial runs with discipline.
Their resistance forced Australia to bat again. However, the stand ended just before the drinks break. Michael Neser broke through, with Smith taking a stunning, diving catch at slip to dismiss Jacks. Neser then removed Stokes in the next over, finishing with career-best figures of 5-42.
NO WAY! NO WAY STEVE SMITH! WOW!#Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/4ziSJChGd4
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2025The tail offered little resistance, setting Australia a target of only 65 runs.
Australia now stands as the overwhelming favorite to retain the Ashes. The host’s clinical efficiency, especially in bowling partnerships and fielding, exposed fundamental English frailties.
England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged the disappointment. “A lot comes down to not being able to stand up to the pressure,” he said. The team’s aggressive approach again resulted in soft dismissals at key moments.
The victory underscores Australia’s depth and adaptability. Even without key bowlers, their attack outperformed England’s. Smith’s leadership and the team’s fielding were decisive factors. The series now moves to Adelaide, with England needing a historic comeback to challenge for the urn.
