Key Takeaways
- Ben Stokes diverted from the Bazball approach, playing a more cautious innings, but still fell short of a century
- Stokes had a dramatic reaction to his dismissal, throwing his bat and cursing himself as he left the field
- Jake Weatherald walked after being given out LBW, despite the ball pitching outside leg stump, which could have been overturned on review
- Cameron Green’s struggles with the bat have raised questions about his position in the team, with Beau Webster and Nathan McSweeney potential replacements
- Harry Brook dropped a crucial catch off Travis Head, who was on 99, which could have changed the course of the game
Introduction to the Third Ashes Test
The third Ashes Test in Adelaide has been marked by several key moments, including a dramatic shift in approach from England captain Ben Stokes. After the team’s capitulation at the Gabba, Stokes spoke about the need for his team to absorb pressure and show fight. However, his own innings on day three was a more cautious affair, as he sought to lead by example. Stokes eventually reached his half-century off 159 balls, his slowest 50 in Test cricket, but fell short of a century, dismissed for 83.
Stokes’ Reaction to Dismissal
Stokes’ reaction to his dismissal was a notable moment in the day’s play. After being bowled by Mitchell Starc for the sixth time in Tests, Stokes threw his bat and cursed himself as he left the field. The outburst was a rare display of emotion from the England captain, who is known for his calm and collected demeanor. The incident was quickly followed by a pat on the back from batting partner Jofra Archer, who had been involved in a dust-up with Stokes on day one. Despite the drama, Stokes’ innings was a significant one, as he sought to lead his team to a stronger position in the match.
Weatherald’s Controversial Dismissal
Jake Weatherald’s dismissal on day three was a contentious one, as the Australian opener walked after being given out LBW, despite the ball pitching outside leg stump. The decision was met with surprise, as Weatherald could have sent it upstairs for review, where it would have been overturned. The incident highlighted the importance of using the review system, and the potential consequences of not doing so. Weatherald’s decision to walk may have been a moment