England’s second day at the Gabba during the Ashes 2025–26 turned into a highlight reel, thanks to one of the finest outfield catches the rivalry has seen. Will Jacks produced a moment of absolute brilliance to dismiss Australia’s stand-in captain Steve Smith, leaving fans, commentators, and even the batter himself stunned. The one-handed screamer, taken on Day 2 (Friday, December 5), instantly went viral across social media and shifted the momentum England’s way.
Earlier in the day, England were bowled out for 334, with Joe Root anchoring the innings masterfully. The former captain remained unbeaten on 138, notching up his 40th Test century—his first on Australian soil. A valuable 70-run last-wicket stand with Jofra Archer supported his fluent knock.
For Australia, Mitchell Starc was the standout performer, claiming six wickets and ensuring England didn’t run away with a bigger total. The real drama unfolded in Australia’s first innings during the 57th over bowled by Brydon Carse. On the fourth ball, Carse dug one short, and Steve Smith instinctively went for a pull.
WATCH – Chaos at Barabati Stadium As Fans Rush For T20I Tickets Ahead of India–South Africa Clash
Instead of middling it, Smith top-edged the ball toward backward square leg. Will Jacks, sprinting several metres to his left, launched into a full-stretch dive and plucked the catch with one hand—cleanly and spectacularly. After a brief check from the third umpire, the decision stood, sending Smith back for a well-made 61.
— j. (@was_jash82) December 5, 2025
The wicket left the Gabba crowd in disbelief and handed England a sudden opening. Carse, who also dismissed another set batter earlier in the over, dragged his team right back into the contest. The atmosphere shifted instantly as Australia, which had been cruising till then, became visibly rattled.
The cricketing world reacted swiftly. Former England captain Michael Vaughan labelled Jacks’ effort “one of the best catches” he had ever witnessed, praising the athleticism and timing behind it. He also highlighted that Australia’s errors had given England a lifeline in a match that seemed to be slipping away.
England’s day wasn’t flawless, though. Ben Duckett dropped a challenging but crucial chance at gully, frustrating skipper Ben Stokes. But Stokes made amends in style when he produced a stunning delivery to castle Josh Inglis—a ball that jagged in sharply from wide of the crease, leaving the batter stranded.
Australia eventually crossed England’s total with six wickets down, taking a narrow lead. However, the momentum shift caused by Jacks’ extraordinary catch ensured that Day 2 ended with the Test intriguingly poised.
