Post by : Meena Ariff

In a dramatic start to the pink-ball second Ashes Test at The Gabba, Australian paceman Mitchell Starc claimed two crucial wickets, sending England's openers Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope back for ducks. With this achievement, Starc has matched the legendary Wasim Akram’s record for the highest wickets by a left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket, bringing his total to 414.

England’s captain, Ben Stokes, opted to bat first after winning the toss. In a surprising twist, Australia chose not to field seasoned spinner Nathan Lyon, opting instead for a pace-focused attack that included all-rounder Michael Neser. Meanwhile, Josh Inglis returned to the lineup, taking the place of the injured Usman Khawaja.

The visiting side made a single adjustment from the initial Test, introducing spin-bowling all-rounder Will Jacks to replace pacer Mark Wood. England aims to rebound and test their aggressive 'Bazball' approach in Australia’s challenging conditions.

During the first Test, England had the upper hand for most of the match but ultimately succumbed to heroic displays from Travis Head and Starc. All eyes are now on Brisbane for what promises to be an enthralling encounter.

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