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Over a period of three hours, Ben Stokes threatened to produce a repeat of the famous knock that cemented his reputation into Ashes folklore. Although that famous Leeds innings is remembered for its explosive finish, the bedrock of stubborn resistance upon which it was constructed is often overlooked.

"These represent the moments he lives for," observed Ricky Ponting as Stokes prepared for his entry to the crease.

England's situation entering the fourth day at the Brisbane's Gabba was similarly dire, trailing 43 runs to make the hosts to bat a second time with only 6 remaining wickets. However, at 5.50pm, under the floodlights on, Stokes's resistance was ended. Seamer Michael Neser, bowling to an attacking field setting, took the edge, and wicketkeeper Alex Carey completed a brilliant take close to the stumps.

This capped a superb display of glovework from Carey and extinguished any lingering Australian nerves. Stokes departed for a gritty half-century from 152 balls, his dismissal effectively confirming England's fate.

A Chase Wiped Out

By 7.30pm, Australia had chased down the paltry required total of 65 runs, achieving an comprehensive eight-wicket victory in just 10 overs. This outcome gave them a dominant 2-0 lead, a situation that looks decidedly foreboding for England with three matches left to play.

Stokes's innings, combined with a determined 41 runs from tailender Will Jacks, was an admirable effort at atonement on one level. The bowlers gave very little, delivering excellent lines and lengths on a tricky pitch offering inconsistent bounce.

Superiority in Key Areas

Nevertheless, it underscored the glaring differences between the sides. The fielding side has been second best in the catching area, spilling five chances during the home side's massive first innings of 511 runs. By contrast, Australia were flawless, summed up by a remarkable low catch by Smith at slip to dismiss Jacks.

Furthermore, England were out-thought by their hosts, who expertly used the pink-ball conditions. There was a last visiting error before their innings of 241 ended: Gus Atkinson, a competent lower-order player, succumbed to a ill-advised pull shot directly to a Smith.

"That wicket ranked with the most gormless of the tour," commentary stated, highlighting a short-ball trap that was almost deliberately fallen into.

Looking Ahead

The two sides now take a extended pause before the next match in Adelaide. Joe Root's men once again forced to reflect, while Australia will only ask tougher questions. With comebacks of Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon will further bolster an formidably powerful side.