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The stand-in captain, Steve Smith, created a new Test cricket record during the second Test against England at the Gabba in Brisbane. In the 39th over on Day 1, Harry Brook edged a delivery from Mitchell Starc, which Smith, positioned at second slip, caught. With this catch, Smith surpassed Greg Chappell to become the player with the most catches against England in Test cricket. At 36 years old, Smith now holds 62 catches in this iconic rivalry, surpassing Chappell’s previous total of 61 catches from 68 innings. He also leads comfortably in Ashes encounters for this record.

Harry Brook was playing with confidence, settling into a good rhythm, but a mistake cost him his wicket. Starc bowled a full-length delivery outside off stump, and instead of letting it pass, Brook went for a cover drive. He misjudged the timing, offering a thick edge that Smith grabbed above his head.

Top players with most catches against England in Tests

England’s start was disastrous, with Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope both dismissed for ducks. However, Zak Crawley and Joe Root took charge, putting together a crucial 117-run partnership, temporarily rescuing England. After Brook fell for 31, Stokes and Root kept the score ticking, but their resistance didn’t last long.

Most catches in Ashes history

The 55th over ended with a miscommunication between Root and Stokes, leading to the latter’s run-out. Root initially called for a quick single, but backed out at the last second, leaving Stokes no time to make it back to the crease. Josh Inglis seized the opportunity, hitting the stumps with a perfect direct throw, leaving Stokes visibly frustrated.

Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse all fell quickly. Meanwhile, Joe Root completed his long-awaited Test century in Australia. England currently stands at 325 for 9, with Jofra Archer on 32 off 26 balls, while Root remains at the crease with 135 off 202 balls.