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For a period of 180 minutes, England's Ben Stokes was hinting at a repeat of the legendary innings that etched his reputation into Ashes folklore. Although that famous Leeds innings is remembered for its blistering finale, the bedrock of unyielding defence upon which it was constructed is often overlooked.

"These are the occasions he thrives on," observed former captain Ricky Ponting as Stokes prepared for his entry to the wicket.

England's predicament entering the fourth day at the Brisbane's Gabba was equally precarious, needing 43 runs to force the hosts to bat again with only 6 wickets in hand. However, at 5.50pm, under the floodlights on, Stokes's defiant stand was ended. Michael Neser, operating to an attacking field setting, found the outside edge, and wicketkeeper Alex Carey held a sharp take close to the stumps.

This capped a sublime exhibition of glovework from Carey and eradicated any remaining home side nerves. Stokes departed for a gritty half-century from 152 balls, his exit effectively confirming England's fate.

A Target Wiped Out

Soon after, Australia had easily reached the paltry required total of 65 runs, achieving an comprehensive eight-wicket victory in just 10.2 overs. This result secured a dominant 2-0 lead, a situation that looks decidedly foreboding for England with three Tests remaining.

The all-rounder's effort, combined with a spirited 41 runs from Will Jacks, represented an impressive effort at redemption on one front. Australia offered precious little, bowling excellent line and length on a difficult pitch providing variable pace.

Dominance in Key Departments

However, it highlighted the glaring disparities between the teams. The fielding side was second best in the catching department, spilling 5 chances during the home side's first innings of 511 runs. By contrast, their opponents were clinical, summed up by a stunning one-handed grab by Smith at slip to remove Jacks.

Additionally, The tourists were out-thought by their hosts, who masterfully manipulated the pink-ball circumstances. There was one final visiting error before their innings of 241 concluded: Gus Atkinson, a competent lower-order player, succumbed to a poor pull shot directly to a fielder.

"That wicket ranked with the most gormless of the tour," commentary noted, pointing out a short-ball plan that was seemingly wilfully fallen into.

Looking Ahead

The two sides now have a nine-day break before the next match in Adelaide. England once again needing to reflect, while Pat Cummins's squad are poised to ask tougher questions. With comebacks of Pat Cummins and off-spinner Nathan Lyon only bolster an formidably dominant side.