Mon Jan 05 04:10:00 UTC 2026: England Dominate Day 2 of Ashes Test, Root’s Century Puts Australia Under Pressure
Sydney, Australia – England’s Joe Root struck a masterful century, reaching his 41st Test century and drawing level with Ricky Ponting, as the visitors piled on the runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Day 2 of the Ashes Test against Australia. England was eventually bowled out for 384.
Resuming at 235-3, England started the day strongly. Harry Brook initially continued his aggressive approach, but fell for 83, edging Boland to Smith at slip. Ben Stokes then came to the crease but struggled against the bowling of Mitchell Starc who ultimately undone him again, England’s run-scoring slowed.
Root, however, remained unperturbed, displaying elegant strokeplay and reaching his century with a boundary off Neser, sparking jubilant celebrations. Jamie Smith provided valuable support, carving out some handy runs before eventually falling.
Australia struggled to contain the English batsmen as the day progressed, the pitch offering little assistance to their bowlers.
First Piper 