Australia tightened their grip on the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, leaving England on the brink after a dominant performance on day three. With the hosts already leading the five-match series 1–0, the momentum continued heavily in their favour as England collapsed under pressure late in the day.

Resuming after Australia’s marathon first-innings effort, England appeared weary and out of rhythm from the outset. Mitchell Starc, who had already contributed a valuable 77 runs with the bat, carried that momentum into his bowling. His pace, swing, and relentless accuracy dismantled England’s top and middle order, leaving the visitors reeling at 134 for 6, still 43 runs behind Australia’s total.

Scott Boland also proved difficult to handle, sending down 72 hostile deliveries that consistently challenged England’s technique and patience. Despite a promising start from Zak Crawley, whose fluent 44 offered brief hope, England failed to build partnerships.

The turning point arrived when Joe Root, England’s most dependable batter, fell without settling. His dismissal sparked a rapid slide. Harry Brook followed soon afterward, undone by Starc’s sharp movement. The tail offered little resistance, and Ben Stokes struggled to find support at the other end. Even Steve Smith, who contributed a solid innings earlier in the Test, eventually perished as the pressure continued to mount.

After spending extended hours in the field during Australia’s long innings, England’s bowlers looked drained. The lack of penetration earlier in the match now translated into fatigue with the bat, exposing technical flaws under relentless Australian pressure.

As the Test progresses, Australia appear firmly in control with a 2–0 series lead in sight. England, meanwhile, will need a dramatic turnaround to avoid falling deeper behind in the Ashes contest.