Thu Dec 04 08:00:00 UTC 2025: Root’s Century Anchors England After Starc’s Early Onslaught in Brisbane
Brisbane, Australia – Joe Root struck a magnificent 40th Test century, his first in Australia, to guide England to a respectable position after a shaky start on day one of the second Test at the Gabba. England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bat, a decision that initially looked questionable as Mitchell Starc ripped through the top order, removing Ben Duckett (0) and Ollie Pope (0) within the first 15 minutes.
Starc had Duckett caught at first slip in the opening over, before Pope chopped onto his own stumps.
Zak Crawley (76) and Joe Root then rebuilt the innings with a 117-run partnership. Crawley was eventually caught behind off Michael Neser, attempting a pull shot. Harry Brook, who looked aggressive but was also fortunate to survive a stumping chance, fell for 31, flashing Starc to slip.
However, Root remained unflappable, reaching his half-century off 83 balls and converting it into a hundred. The former England captain looked solid, showing exemplary technique.
Earlier in the day, Australia missed the wickets of Ben Stokes (run out) and Steve Smith (bowled out), both of whom recorded ducks.
Starc was the pick of the Australian bowlers, bagging six wickets.
First Piper 