The Ashes tips: Best bets for the Second Test

After a bruising two-day loss in the opening Ashes Test, England must find a response in Brisbane as they attempt to level the five-match series.

The Gabba has hosted plenty of iconic Ashes showdowns over the years — this time, the sides meet in a day-night contest played with the pink ball.

Both teams will be without key figures, setting the stage for another exciting clash between these long-standing rivals.

Selections

England to win @ 19/10

Australia Top Batter 1st Innings – Steve Smith @ 13/5

To take 3+ Wickets First Innings – Jofra Archer @ 1/1

England out to answer their critics

Plenty has been written and said since England lost the first Test inside two days, with much of the commentary harshly criticizing the tourists and their tactical choices.

Even after earning a first-innings advantage, Brendon McCullum’s side collapsed in Perth — a result that now piles even more pressure onto the Gabba encounter.

Historically, Brisbane has been a difficult venue for England, who have managed only five wins in 22 Tests there, with their last triumph dating back to 1986.

However, the pink-ball format offers them a glimpse of optimism, especially considering Australia’s recent performances at this ground.

Earlier this year, the hosts were held to a rain-affected draw by India, and before that they suffered a surprise defeat to the West Indies — both matches played under the same day-night conditions.

England have a habit of finding a response when under fire, and with captain Pat Cummins and fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood still sidelined, the visitors may be able to exploit the swing and skid of the pink ball.

Tip 1: England to win @ 19/10

Smith’s Gabba pedigree makes him the standout pick

With Cummins still unavailable due to a back issue, Steve Smith will once again lead Australia as they return to Queensland.

The 36-year-old managed only 19 runs across two innings in Perth, but his body of work at the Gabba ensures he remains the wicket England will be desperate to claim early.

Smith sits fifth on the all-time Test run-scoring list at this venue, with 926 runs in 19 innings — averaging an impressive 54.47.

He struck a century in the draw against India earlier this year and finished unbeaten on 91 in the second innings of the loss to the West Indies.

Tip 2: Australia Top Batter 1st Innings – Steve Smith @ 13/5

England’s hopes pinned on Archer

England were dealt a setback before the second Test with confirmation that Mark Wood will miss the Brisbane match due to a knee issue.

Josh Tongue is expected to come in as his replacement, with England likely to stick to a full seam-bowling unit supported by Joe Root’s occasional spin.

The sheer pace of England’s bowlers caused Australia significant trouble in the first innings at Perth, where Jofra Archer took an excellent 2-11 from nine overs.

The speedster will need to be at his very best if England are to give themselves a genuine shot at a famous victory.

Tip 3: To take 3+ Wickets First Innings – Jofra Archer @ 1/1