England’s Ashes hopes faltered as Australia dominated the third Test in Adelaide. Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer added late resistance. Australia leads 2-0 and needs only a draw to retain the urn.
England struggled under heat and pressure, finishing day two at 213 for eight, still 158 runs behind Australia’s first innings 371. Stokes remained unbeaten on 45 and Archer on 30, adding 45 runs for the ninth wicket. Early collapses and failures higher up the order left England on the back foot. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon dismantled the top order, removing key batsmen before lunch. Lyon’s spinning deliveries and Cummins’ pace were crucial in restricting England’s scoring.
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The day also saw controversy over the “Snicko” review technology, adding tension to an already heated contest. England’s attempts to deny Australia a 400-plus total provided only brief hope. Lyon bowled Ben Duckett and trapped Ollie Pope cheaply, intensifying England’s woes. Despite valiant efforts by Stokes and Archer, the innings lacked momentum and depth.
Australia, confident after wins in Perth and Brisbane, showed no sign of slowing. Cummins praised his team’s effort, highlighting the fast bowlers’ work to reduce England to 213-8. The hosts aim for another dominant victory, keeping their grip on the series. England faces a steep challenge to revive its Ashes campaign.
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With just one Test remaining, England must rebuild quickly or risk a series whitewash. Australia’s form and strategy suggest a strong chance of extending their dominance.