đź”— Share this article Neser's Pivotal Wickets Prior to Australia Ease to Two-Zero Ashes Advantage Over The English For a span of 180 minutes, England's Ben Stokes threatened to produce a repeat of the legendary innings that cemented his name into cricketing history. Although Headingley 2019 is remembered for its blistering finale, the bedrock of unyielding resistance upon which it was constructed is often overlooked. "These represent the moments he thrives on," noted Ricky Ponting as Stokes awaited his walk to the crease. The tourists' situation entering the fourth day at the Brisbane's Gabba was similarly dire, needing 43 runs to make the hosts to bat a second time with only six remaining wickets. Yet, at 5.50pm, under the stadium lights illuminating the field, Stokes's resistance was halted. Michael Neser, operating to an attacking field, found the edge, and gloveman Alex Carey held a sharp catch close to the stumps. This capped a superb display of glovework from Carey and eradicated any remaining Australian nerves. Stokes departed for a hard-fought 50 runs from 152 balls, his dismissal effectively sealing England's fate. A Chase Easily Overhauled By 7.30pm, Australia had chased down the paltry required total of 65 runs, securing an eight-wicket win in just 10 overs. This result gave them a commanding two-nil series advantage, a situation that looks increasingly foreboding for the visitors with three matches remaining. Stokes's effort, allied with a spirited 41 from Will Jacks, was an impressive effort at redemption on one front. The bowlers offered precious little, delivering impeccable line and length on a difficult surface providing variable bounce. Superiority in Crucial Departments Nevertheless, it highlighted the significant differences between the teams. England has been second best in the fielding area, spilling five chances during Australia's massive first innings of 511. By contrast, their opponents were clinical, epitomized by a stunning one-handed catch by Smith at slip to remove Jacks. Additionally, England were out-thought by Australia, who expertly used the day-night conditions. Even one final visiting error before their total of 241 ended: Gus Atkinson, a capable lower-order player, succumbed to a poor pull shot directly to a Smith. "That wicket ranked among the most gormless on this trip," commentary stated, pointing out a short-ball plan that was almost wilfully walked into. The Road Forward Both teams now have a nine-day pause before the next match in Adelaide. England once again needing to undertake serious reflection, while Pat Cummins's squad are poised to ask tougher problems. With returns of Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon only strengthen an already dominant team.