Australia’s Day-Night Test in Brisbane has tilted overwhelmingly in the home side’s favour, thanks largely to an unexpected batting performance from pacer Mitchell Stark. On the second day, Australia had closed on 378 for six in 73 overs, signalling a strong platform for their first innings. Today, in the opening session of the third day, Australia surpassed 400 runs, cementing a psychological advantage. Historically, no team has lost at the Gabba after surpassing 400 in their first innings—a statistic that suggests England’s chances are slim.
The session saw Australia adding 72 runs for the loss of two wickets, extending their innings to 450 for eight after 99 overs. With a lead of 117, Steve Smith’s side comfortably dictated terms. England captain Ben Stokes broke the early partnership of Alex Carey and Michael Neser, with Neser departing for 16, ending a promising 49-run stand from the previous day after adding only five more runs today.
The eighth-wicket partnership between Stark and Carey tested England’s patience. Stark, known primarily as a fast bowler, played with composure and textbook precision, while Cameron Boland supported him ably. Together, they stitched a 34-run stand over 96 balls, frustrating England and demonstrating the depth of Australia’s batting. Carey was eventually dismissed for 63 by Gus Atkinson, but Stark’s innings continued to flourish.
By the end of the session, Stark and Boland were unbeaten on 46 and 7, ensuring Australia retained a strong grip on the game. The Gabba has historically been a fortress for Australia, with only four home defeats after securing a first-innings lead of 100 or more, the last loss being in 1994 to South Africa in Sydney.
Stark’s innings has highlighted Australia’s depth and England’s struggles. His ability to occupy the crease and rotate strike has applied immense pressure on the English bowlers, making a comeback increasingly improbable. For England, the challenge is clear: break the lower-order resistance or face a likely innings defeat.