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For a period of 180 minutes, Ben Stokes threatened to produce a re-enactment of the legendary innings that cemented his reputation into Ashes folklore. Although that famous Leeds innings is recalled for its blistering finale, the foundation of unyielding defence upon which it was built is frequently forgotten.

"These are the occasions he thrives on," noted former captain Ricky Ponting as Stokes awaited his walk to the crease.

The tourists' situation heading into the fourth day at the Gabba was equally precarious, trailing 43 runs to force the hosts to bat again with only six remaining wickets. However, at 5.50pm, with the floodlights illuminating the field, Stokes's resistance was ended. Michael Neser, bowling to an attacking field, found the outside edge, and gloveman Alex Carey held a sharp catch standing up.

This rounded off a superb exhibition of wicketkeeping from Carey and extinguished any lingering Australian anxieties. Stokes walked off for a hard-fought half-century from 152 deliveries, his exit all but confirming England's fate.

A Chase Wiped Out

By 7.30pm, Australia had chased down the paltry required total of 65, securing an eight-wicket victory in just 10.2 overs. This result gave them a commanding 2-0 lead, a position that looks decidedly foreboding for England with three matches left to play.

Stokes's innings, combined with a spirited 41 from tailender Will Jacks, was an impressive attempt at atonement on one level. Australia gave very little, bowling excellent lines and lengths on a difficult pitch providing variable bounce.

Superiority in Crucial Areas

However, it underscored the glaring disparities between the teams. England was outclassed in the fielding department, dropping 5 opportunities during the home side's first innings of 511 runs. In contrast, their opponents were flawless, epitomized by a remarkable one-handed catch by Steve Smith to dismiss Jacks.

Additionally, England were outsmarted by their hosts, who expertly used the day-night circumstances. Even one final visiting error before their total of 241 ended: Gus Atkinson, a capable lower-order player, succumbed to a ill-advised pull shot directly to a Smith.

"His dismissal ranked with the most gormless of the tour," commentary stated, highlighting a short-ball plan that was seemingly wilfully fallen into.

Looking Ahead

Both teams now take a extended break before the third Test in Adelaide. England are left needing to undertake serious reflection, while Pat Cummins's squad will only pose tougher problems. With comebacks of skipper Cummins and off-spinner Lyon will further bolster an already dominant team.