Ashes 2025-26 [WATCH]: Alex Carey grabs a brilliant catch while running backwards to remove Gus Atkinson on Day 1 of the Pink-Ball Test

The much-anticipated 2nd Test of the Ashes series between Australia and England kicked off at the iconic Brisbane Cricket Ground on December 4, 2025. Playing a day-night match under pink-ball conditions, the two cricketing giants clashed again, with intense battles unfolding both with the bat and ball. The Gabba pitch offered fair assistance to the bowlers early on, leading to a gripping contest that captivated fans worldwide. Australia aimed to capitalize on their momentum after the first Test, while England looked to stabilize and build on their innings.​

Alex Carey grabs a screamer to dismiss Gus Atkinson on Day 1

One of the standout moments came late in the day when Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey showcased exceptional athleticism and reflexes to pluck an extraordinary catch. At 66.2 overs, Mitchell Starc delivered a full-length delivery to England’s Gus Atkinson, who top-edged the ball. Both Carey and Marnus Labuschagne sprinted back shoulder-to-shoulder, diving for the flying ball. In a spectacular display of skill and composure, Carey secured the catch running backwards, wrapping his gloves firmly around the ball despite the challenging trajectory and high speed.

The catch was so exceptional that officials even checked if the ball had clipped the Spidercam wires above the field, but it was deemed clean. This pivotal wicket gave Starc his fifth of the innings and shifted the momentum firmly in Australia’s favour as they bowled England out for 264/8 at that stage.​

Here’s the video:

#MitchellStarc bags his fifth wicket but what a take from Alex Carey, sprinting back, diving full stretch and holding on under pressure! 🤯💪
Even Marnus couldn’t believe it! #AUSvENG | THE ASHES | 2nd Test, Day 1 | LIVE NOW 👉🏻 https://t.co/w23M3vjJal pic.twitter.com/h09gZuO1Cz

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 4, 2025

Also WATCH: Josh Inglis’ stunning direct hit sends Ben Stokes packing on Day 1 of the Pink-Ball Test

England dominate with Joe Root’s maiden ton in Australia on the opening day

On the batting front, England dominated the majority of the day at the Gabba, reaching a commendable 325/9 at stumps. Joe Root was the standout performer, crafting a patient and masterful innings of 135 runs off 202 balls, including 15 boundaries, which marked his maiden Test century in Australia and his 40th overall. Root’s innings stabilized England after an early scare where key batters Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope fell cheaply to Mitchell Starc. Root adeptly married defense and attack, rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries while partners around him struggled to build partnerships.

Zak Crawley provided strong support with a well-compiled 76 before succumbing to Michael Neser. Other contributions came from Harry Brook (31), Ben Stokes (19), and Will Jacks (19), but the lower order, including Atkinson and Brydon Carse, faltered under Starc’s relentless bowling. England’s innings saw several critical partnerships, including a 117-run stand for the third wicket between Crawley and Root, but Starc’s six-wicket haul and Carey’s spectacular wicketkeeping ensured Australia kept the pressure on.​

With Jofra Archer unbeaten on 32* and Root still at the crease at stumps, England ended the day with solid momentum on the scoreboard but facing a powerful Australian bowling attack under lights. The pink ball’s influence and the Gabba’s fast, bouncy conditions promise an enthralling contest in this Ashes battle for supremacy.