Joe Root leads England to first-innings 384 in Sydney before leaving field with back concerns during Australian reply at SCG

England’s Joe Root produced a masterclass on day two of the fifth Ashes Test, scoring a brilliant 160 to help his team post a first-innings total of 384. Yet the joy was tinged with worry when he left the field clutching his back during Australia’s reply, sparking concerns about a potential injury.

A Marathon Batting Effort

Root’s innings was a lesson in endurance and skill. Batting for nearly seven hours, he added a second century in Australia this series, following his unbeaten 138 at the Gabba in December. That knock also brought him level with Ricky Ponting on 41 Test centuries. Despite this incredible feat, Root’s history of back trouble had England’s medical team watching closely. He later downplayed the scare, describing it as nothing worse than cramp.

Travis Head Leads Australia’s Comeback

Australia responded strongly, particularly through Travis Head, who reached a 55-ball half-century before finishing the day unbeaten on 91.

The hosts racked up 166 for two in the final session, putting England under pressure and reminding everyone of the series’ intensity. Head also became the first batsman of the series to surpass 500 runs, underlining his dominance.

Tensions Flare on the Field

The day wasn’t just about runs. In a heated moment, Ben Stokes confronted Marnus Labuschagne after conceding consecutive fours.

Stokes appeared to tell him to “button it,” and while Labuschagne later fell to Jacob Bethell for 48, the incident added drama to an already tense contest.

Root’s Patient Approach Sets the Tone

The first half of the day belonged firmly to Root.

Resuming on 72, he controlled the innings expertly while partners like Harry Brook struggled to capitalize.

Even when Jamie Smith had a shaky moment and edged a simple delivery straight to deep cover, Root continued to build partnerships patiently, showing his experience and calm under pressure.

England’s Bowling Woes Continue

Despite Root’s heroics with the bat, England’s bowlers struggled to contain Australia.

Mitchell Starc removed Stokes for a duck, and Neser claimed four wickets for 60 runs, including Root himself.

Matthew Potts and Brydon Carse again failed to control their lengths, while a dropped catch by Ben Duckett added to England’s frustrations.

Key Partnerships Keep Australia Afloat

Labuschagne and Head stitched together a crucial second-wicket stand of 105 in just 18 overs, keeping Australia on top as daylight faded.

England will need early breakthroughs on day three to swing momentum back in their favor.

Looking Ahead

With Root’s back under scrutiny and Australia gaining confidence, England faces a tricky third morning.

Quick wickets are essential if they want to wrestle control of the match. For now, the Ashes remain fiercely contested, with individual brilliance and small moments of drama shaping the series’ thrilling conclusion.

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