England endured a frustrating day as their first-innings total of 334 was eclipsed by Australia, who held a 44-run lead at stumps. Several missed chances allowed Australia to take control, achieving the highest one-day score in a day-night Test.
England managed to add just 9 runs to their overnight score. Joe Root remained unbeaten on 138 from 206 balls, striking 15 fours and one six. After losing nine wickets for 264 runs, he put together a 70-run partnership with Jofra Archer. Mitchell Starc took six wickets, the most in England’s innings.
Australia’s reply saw the openers break at 77. Head was dismissed for 33 in the ninth over. Jake Weatherald and Marnus Labuschagne added 69 runs together, with Labuschagne contributing 65. They lost another wicket before lunch.
Cameron Green and Steve Smith strengthened Australia’s position with a 95-run stand for the fourth wicket. Green scored 45 before being dismissed. Alex Carey survived a chance off Ben Duckett, but Smith was out for 61 immediately after.
England dropped three further catches, allowing Australia to consolidate their dominance. Josh Inglis was dismissed for 23, but Carey and Neser finished the day with an unbeaten 49-run partnership. Australia ended on 378 for 6, their highest one-day total in a day-night Test. The combined tally for both teams today reached 387 runs, setting another record.
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