Ashes Test 2 Day 4 : Ruthless Aussies Go 2-0 Up in the Series
Day 4 at the Gabba delivered a harsh denouement for England as Australia national cricket team wrapped up the second Test with clinical precision — thanks to a ruthless bowling display backed by calm batting under pressure. With the second innings unraveling under lights and the target of 65 runs chased down in quick time, Australia secured an emphatic eight-wicket win, grabbing a 2-0 lead in the series.
What Happened Till Stumps Before Day 4
At stumps on Day 3, Australia had already amassed a hefty 511 in their first innings and had reduced England to 134/6 in the second innings — a lead of 43 runs with four wickets still in hand for the tourists. There was still a slim glimmer of hope for England if their tail fought back, but the writing seemed on the wall with the Australian bowlers in command.
Australia vs England – 2nd Ashes Test • Day 4
The Ashes 2025/26 • 4–8 December 2025
Day Summary
From the moment Day 4 began, the momentum stayed firmly with Australia. Their bowlers tightened the screws, exploited England’s both shot-selection frailties and lack of discipline, while the batsmen chased down the small target without fuss. When the last wicket fell and the winning runs were scored, it wasn’t just a Test win — it was a statement. England’s fight collapsed under the weight of pressure, and Australia left Brisbane with dominance not just on the scoreboard but in all key departments.
Session-by-Session Breakdown — Day 4
Morning Session
England resumed with a flicker of hope — a resilient start from Ben Stokes and Will Jacks soothed jitters briefly. They added some runs, but the intent and pressure were squarely with Australia’s bowlers. Tight lines and disciplined lengths ensured England couldn’t rebuild meaningful momentum.
Afternoon Session
As the session deepened, cracks in England’s resolve began to show. The fielding remained shaky, and the bowlers looked increasingly ragged. The pressure of the big total and previous batting collapse weighed heavy; incremental errors added up. Runs slowed, mistakes grew, and Australia smelled wickets.
Evening Session (Pink-Ball / Under Lights)
Under lights, Australia delivered the knockout blow. Michael Neser spearheaded the charge, finishing with a 5-wicket haul as England imploded to 241 all out. Even a defiant half-century from Ben Stokes couldn’t stave off the collapse. With a tiny 65 to chase, Australia’s openers — and former match-winners — closed the match quickly. Skipper Steve Smith sealed the win with a boundary six — capping a dominant performance.
Top Performers of Day 4
Michael Neser — Seam Mastery Under Pressure
Back in Test cricket after a gap, Neser delivered a dream return. His 5-42 under the pink ball dismantled England’s lower-middle order — he bowled with discipline, exploited conditions brilliantly, and struck when it mattered most. His haul turned the tide firmly in Australia’s favour.
Steve Smith — Calm Finisher & Match Closer
Chasing a trivial target under lights can sometimes be deceptively tricky, but Smith brought experience and composure. His counter-attack, culminating in a six to win, showed why he remains Australia’s go-to man to finish Tests. His presence in the middle sealed no chances for England to stage a twist.
Ben Stokes & Will Jacks — Brave Resistance, But Insufficient
England’s hopes rested on a fighting partnership, and Stokes (50) plus Jacks (41) briefly offered it. Their stand provided glimpses of fight, but constant pressure from Australia and lack of support from the rest of the lineup meant their efforts ultimately couldn’t stop the collapse.
Ashes Test 2 Day 4 Highlights
What to Expect in Next Test
With a 2–0 lead in the five-match series and confidence flowing, Australia will enter the upcoming Tests full of momentum — and with a bowlers’ attack now deep and hungry. England, meanwhile, must regroup quickly: discipline, shot selection, and fielding need urgent attention. Unless they rediscover their form, the third Test could slip away early. For fans, expect intense battles, but the onus will be squarely on England to dodge a potential series whitewash.
