The third day of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide was a rollercoaster of emotions and pivotal moments. England’s Harry Brook dropped Australia’s Travis Head on 99, a mistake that added to the frustrations of England captain Ben Stokes, who had already started the day in a less than favorable mood. Meanwhile, Jake Weatherald’s premature exit and Cameron Green’s ongoing struggles added layers to the unfolding drama.
Stokes’ Leadership Under Scrutiny
Ben Stokes, known for his aggressive and attacking style under coach Brendon McCullum’s “Bazball” philosophy, showed a different side on this day. After England’s collapse at the Gabba, Stokes emphasized the need for his team to absorb pressure, a departure from their usual approach. His 148-ball 50 was a testament to this shift, though it raised questions about his leadership and the team’s strategy.
Former Australian fast bowler Stuart Clark commented on ABC Sport,
“The top six have been told to play attacking … without consequence. It hasn’t worked and [Stokes has] gone ‘I’m gonna play like we’re supposed to play’. To me that is really, really confusing if I was a young player.”
Stokes’ slowest Test half-century, reminiscent of his legendary innings at Headingley in 2019, ultimately ended at 83, leaving England’s hopes in the balance.
Emotional Outbursts and Team Dynamics
Stokes’ dismissal by Mitchell Starc, for the sixth time in Tests, was a moment of visible frustration. His reaction was akin to a junior player’s outburst, as he vented his anger by tossing his bat and cursing his way off the field. Jofra Archer’s supportive pat on the back highlighted the team dynamics, especially after their earlier disagreement.
Meanwhile, Jake Weatherald’s decision to walk off after an LBW appeal, without reviewing, puzzled many. Ball-tracking technology showed the ball pitching outside leg stump, a decision that could have been overturned, adding to the umpires’ controversial calls in this Test.
Cameron Green’s Position Under Threat
Cameron Green’s batting average of 21.8 over 15 innings since his career-high 174* in Wellington has sparked discussions about his place in the team. Former Test fast bowler Jason Gillespie suggested that selectors might consider Beau Webster as a potential replacement.
Gillespie noted on ABC Sport,
“There obviously will be discussions. They like Cam Green in the side, they obviously believe he’s a generational talent, and he certainly is a very fine young player, but ultimately they need a return on investment.”
The possibility of bringing Nathan McSweeney into the lineup was also floated, highlighting the competitive nature of selection decisions.
Travis Head’s Redemption and Brook’s Challenges
Travis Head, batting with uncharacteristic caution, found himself on 99 when Brook’s drop gave him a lifeline. Head’s innings, supported by Alex Carey, underscored his growing stature in the Australian team. However, Brook’s drop echoed his earlier mistake with Usman Khawaja, raising questions about his fielding under pressure.
Ben Stokes’ absence during Head’s drop perhaps added to Brook’s burden, as he temporarily assumed captaincy duties.
The third day in Adelaide was a microcosm of the ongoing Ashes series, filled with individual brilliance, strategic shifts, and the ever-present pressure of one of cricket’s most storied rivalries. As the series progresses, the implications of these moments will continue to unfold, shaping the narratives of both teams.
