MELBOURNE, Australia — In a stunning reversal of fortunes, England’s bowling attack staged a remarkable resurgence on Day 2 of the fourth Ashes Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, reducing Australia to a precarious 98-6 in their second innings by lunchtime Saturday.
The dramatic collapse came after Australia had dominated the opening day, skittling England for a mere 110 runs. The match has witnessed an extraordinary 26 wickets falling across just four sessions of play, highlighting the intensely bowler-friendly conditions.
England’s fightback was spearheaded by their pace attack, with Josh Tongue continuing his impressive form from Friday’s performance where he claimed a career-best 5-45. The English bowlers exploited a pitch that has drawn criticism from cricket legends including Michael Vaughan, Stuart Broad, Brett Lee, and Mark Waugh, who collectively described the surface as offering excessive sideways movement.
Australia’s innings began unraveling early Saturday after resuming at 4-0. The hosts suffered two quick losses as Gus Atkinson removed Scott Boland (6) caught behind, while captain Ben Stokes struck in his first over, clean bowling Jake Weatherald (5) who offered no shot.
The pressure intensified as Marnus Labuschagne (8) fell to Tongue’s bowling at 61-3, followed by the crucial dismissal of Travis Head (46) who was bowled by Brydon Carse at 82-4. The collapse continued with Usman Khawaja departing for a duck and Alex Carey (4) caught at second slip.
With Steve Smith (16*) and Cameron Green (6*) at the crease, Australia holds a 140-run overall lead but faces significant challenges in setting a substantial target on this unpredictable pitch. The match situation remains delicately poised as both teams battle not only each other but also the demanding playing conditions.