4th Ashes Test, Day 2: Crawley & Root’s Breathtaking Partnership Fuels England’s Domination

Manchester: England dominated the second day of the crucial fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford, fueled by Zak Crawley’s sensational 189 runs. At stumps on Thursday, England were 384-4, leading Australia by 67 runs after dismissing them for 317 in the first innings.

Crawley and Joe Root formed an explosive partnership, amassing 206 runs in just 29 overs, while Crawley and Moeen Ali contributed 121 runs for the second wicket.

The Kent opener, Crawley, celebrated his first Ashes century and credited the support of captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum for backing him despite inconsistency. England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ style has been championed by Crawley.

England’s run spree was unexpected as they reached lunch at 61-1 but exploded to 239-2 at tea, smashing 178 runs in just 25 overs during the second session. Crawley’s magnificent innings saw him become only the sixth England batsman to score a hundred runs in a session of an Ashes Test.

However, Crawley’s superb knock ended when he was bowled by Cameron Green, stopping him from reaching a double century. His 182-ball innings included 21 fours and three sixes.

In contrast, Root was bowled for 84 by Josh Hazlewood’s delivery which kept exceptionally low. Stokes faced a scare when he was hit on the helmet by a Hazlewood delivery.

Australia’s troubles worsened when Mitchell Starc left the field with a shoulder injury after a diving stop. Despite his efforts, Australia struggled to contain England’s aggressive batting.

Earlier, Australia’s innings concluded at 299-8, with Chris Woakes taking five wickets (5-62) to complete his first five-wicket Ashes haul.

England, trailing 2-1 in the five-game series, must win in Manchester to keep their hopes alive of regaining the Ashes. The partnership between Crawley and Root has put them in a strong position, and the team’s aggressive approach remains a key strategy.

Moeen Ali achieved a significant milestone, becoming the fourth England player to achieve the Test ‘double’ of 3,000 runs and 200 wickets.

Australia faced challenges with their bowling attack, leaving out a specialist spinner for the first time in 11 years.

Overall, England’s impressive batting display and Australia’s struggles have set the stage for an exciting continuation of the Ashes series.