England's surprise call leaves jaws on the floor
Australia’s marathon first innings finally concluded, with Mitchell Starc delivering a commanding 77 off 141 balls to propel the hosts to 511 all out at the Gabba on day three. Starc has been everything for the series so far, contributing with both bat and ball and establishing himself as the standout player of the current contest. His efforts gave the Australians a substantial 177-run lead after the opening innings.
Skipper Ben Stokes wore his frustration on the surface as England’s bowlers allowed the Aussie tail to accumulate runs under a blazing Brisbane sun, stretching into the night. England now face an under-light chase, needing to show exceptional resilience and grit—or perhaps summon some of Bazball’s characteristic fireworks—to overhaul the deficit and keep their hopes alive of avoiding a 2-0 series hole.
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