Ashes 2023: Stokes and Brook lead England's dominance on Day 3; Hazlewood shines with five wickets

Day 3 of the Ashes 2023 witnessed thrilling action as England dominated the game, thanks to outstanding performances from Ben Stokes and Jack Brook. Stokes exhibited aggressive batting, achieving his 30th Test fifty before being dismissed by Pat Cummins for 51 runs, marking Cummins' first wicket of the Test.

During the first session, England reached an impressive total of 447/5 in 85 overs, with Brook standing strong at 48* while Bairstow accompanied him at 1*. Brook continued his excellent form, achieving back-to-back fifties in the Ashes 2023. The pair of Brook and Bairstow extended England's lead beyond 150 runs, setting a formidable foundation. Australia made a significant move by taking the second new ball after a 10-over delay, which eventually proved fruitful. Josh Hazlewood dismissed Brook on 61 with an excellent catch from Mitchell Starc. Chris Woakes faced a quick departure, leaving England at 500 in the 96th over. Hazlewood struck again, taking Wood's wicket on the stroke of lunch.

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After lunch, rain interrupted the game, causing a delay midway through the session. However, the weather cleared up quickly. Hazlewood continued his exceptional form, taking Broad's wicket and achieving his 10th Test fifer. Bairstow displayed outstanding performance, bringing up his fifty with a six and adding 50 runs for the last wicket partnership with Anderson. England finished strong at 592 (107.4 Overs), with Zak Crawley contributing an impressive 189. Hazlewood showcased his bowling prowess, taking five wickets for 126 runs, significantly impacting Australia's performance.

In Australia's innings, Warner played a steady game, but Woakes proved to be a formidable opponent, dismissing him twice in the Test match. Woakes got Warner out, dragging the ball back onto the stumps. In the third session, Labuschagne and Smith attempted to stabilize Australia's innings. However, Wood struck, dismissing Smith for 17 runs.

Australia managed to bring up their 100 in the 35th over, but Wood proved to be a significant threat, dismissing Head late in the day. By the end of Day 3, Labuschagne and Marsh remained unbeaten at the crease, with Australia at 113/4 after 41 overs. Day 3 saw remarkable performances from both sides, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the Test match. England's dominant batting display and Australia's resilient approach promise an engaging Day 4 of the Ashes 2023 at Old Trafford.

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