Carse's costly drops and Smith's magic keep Ashes alive

The second day of the Ashes Test at the Gabba saw Australia assert dominance, building a substantial lead over England. Crucial batting partnerships, particularly from Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, underpinned Australia's strong position. Despite initial struggles, the Australian batters capitalized on opportunities, making England's bowling attack pay for lapses in control.

England's fielding woes were evident, with several dropped catches proving particularly costly. These missed opportunities allowed Australia to extend their advantage and put further pressure on the visitors. The momentum shifted dramatically at times, showcasing the unpredictable nature of Test cricket.

Key moments, including a spectacular catch to dismiss Steve Smith, offered England a glimmer of hope. However, Australia's overall performance, marked by solid batting and effective bowling, left them in a commanding position heading into the latter stages of the match. The series remains tantalizingly poised.