Adelaide: The second Ashes Test has delivered another blockbuster chapter, highlighted by Marnus Labuschagne’s stunning airborne catch, hailed instantly as the “catch of the summer.” The Australian star launched himself full-stretch at deep mid-wicket to remove Jofra Archer, who had just registered a career-best 38 in England’s first innings.
Labuschagne’s effort ended the English innings, leaving Joe Root stranded on an unbeaten 138, his first century on Australian soil, breaking a long-standing drought that had become the focus of fans, commentators and even television presenters.
Root’s Century Sparks Reactions
Root’s classy ton brought immense relief to the England camp — and to many English fans. Presenter Grace Hayden, reacting after watching the England captain raise his bat, said the hundred had “saved the nation”, especially after her father made a rather outrageous promise before the series.
The former Australian opener, known for his bold humour, had vowed to walk nude around the MCG if Root failed to make a century this Ashes — a clip England’s social media page happily resurfaced after the milestone.
Australia Face Archer Under Lights
Australia’s chase under the pink ball began tensely, as Jofra Archer found sharp bounce and swing in the twilight session. Travis Head survived an early scare when Archer drew an outside edge — only for wicketkeeper Jamie Smith to grass a regulation catch that could have shifted momentum early.
At the other end, Jake Weatherald showed resilience after a shaky start, with commentators debating his unusual low stance. But the left-hander responded emphatically, cracking three boundaries off Gus Atkinson to silence concerns and steady Australia’s reply.
Mark Waugh Slams Steve Smith for “Time-Wasting”
As day one closed, commentary turned fiery when former Australian great Mark Waugh criticised captain Steve Smith for what he described as deliberate time-wasting. Waugh claimed Smith was intentionally dragging out field settings to avoid sending his openers into bat under lights.
“I don’t think it was acceptable,” Waugh said on Kayo. “Everyone knew what he was doing, and the umpires should have stepped in.”
Australia bowled only 74 of the scheduled 90 overs, further fuelling debate among fans and experts.
