Sky Sports Cricket Podcast The Ashes Daily: England's Ashes hopes hanging by a thread after Australia's bowlers deliver masterclass.
Dec 18, 2025
Day two in Adelaide saw England's top order crumble, trailing significantly as Nathan Lyon shone with a milestone achievement. The hosts dissect a tense confrontation between Archer and Stokes over fielding strategies and highlight England's poor tactical choices. Stokes managed a defiant innings despite extreme heat, but questions linger about England's batting adaptability. DRS controversies added to the drama, while Australia's masterclass in bowling left England facing an uphill challenge as they look ahead to day three.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Top Order Collapse On A Good Pitch
- England's top order repeatedly failed on a pitch that remained good, exposing technique and temperament issues.
- The scoreboard pressure left Ben Stokes carrying a fatigued and thin batting lineup in extreme heat.
Bowling Lapses Set The Tone
- England's new-ball bowling lacked discipline early, allowing Australia to seize momentum and add useful runs.
- A visible spat between Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer exposed frustration about line, length and field choices.
Lyon's Control Shaped The Day
- Nathan Lyon's control and craft allowed Australia to rotate bowlers and maintain relentless pressure.
- Lyon's performance changed the day's balance and highlighted spin's value even on a flat Adelaide track.