The Adelaide sun was not the only source of heat for England on day two of the third Ashes Test, as tensions briefly flared on the field between captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Jofra Archer. Amid sweltering conditions, England were searching desperately for a breakthrough when a fiery exchange between the two senior players caught the eye.
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Australia resumed their innings with Mitchell Starc pushing on to a hard-fought half-century, threatening to further frustrate England. As pressure mounted, Stokes and Archer were seen in an animated mid-over discussion, gesturing and exchanging sharp words while reassessing field placements and bowling plans at a crucial moment.
According to Fox Sports, Stokes appeared to urge Archer to focus on execution rather than questioning the field. “Mate, don’t complain about the field placings when you bowl s***,” the England skipper was heard saying.
Moments later, Archer responded in the best possible manner. Adjusting his line and targeting the stumps, the pacer clean bowled Starc, finally ending Australia’s resistance and vindicating the aggressive exchange. Stokes was also heard urging Archer to “shut the f*** up” as the bowler charged in, underscoring the intensity of the situation.
Despite the earlier flare-up, the pair later combined to steady England’s innings. With the visitors struggling at 168 for 8 and staring at the prospect of a follow-on, Stokes and Archer stitched together a vital ninth-wicket stand.
Stokes remained unbeaten on 45, while Archer contributed a gritty 30, helping England close day two on 213 for 8. Although still trailing Australia by 158 runs, the partnership ensured England lived to fight another day in the Ashes contest.
