Ashes 2025-26: Archer’s bouncer sparks heated exchange with Smith as Australia crush England in Brisbane

Published - 07 Dec 2025, 15:22 IST | Updated - 07 Dec 2025, 15:24 IST

The second Ashes 2025-26 Test in Brisbane came to an eventful end, not only because Australia sealed a dominant win, but also due to the fiery exchanges witnessed late on the final day. Australia defeated England by eight wickets on December 6, moving 2-0 ahead in the five-match series. Chasing a modest target of 65 in the second innings, the hosts completed the job in just 10 overs, with Steven Smith leading the way with a blistering 23* off nine balls.

However, the chase was not short of drama. In the ninth over, tensions flared between Smith and England pacer Jofra Archer, creating one of the most talked-about moments of the Test. Archer began the over by conceding four runs, followed by a dot ball. On the third delivery, he delivered a sharp bouncer aimed at the body. Smith moved onto the back foot to pull but only managed a top edge, with the ball brushing the glove before flying over the keeper for a boundary. Archer exchanged words with Smith, while England captain Ben Stokes applauded the effort. Smith, however, chose not to respond at that moment.

"Bowl fast when there's nothing going on champion."Steve Smith v Jofra Archer was seriously spicy 🍿 #Ashes

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Archer charged in again, but this time Smith was ready. A short ball sat up nicely for the pull, and Smith launched it into the crowd for a massive six. Archer wore a wry smile as he walked back to his mark, this time without further words, while Smith raised his hands briefly in response.

With the emotions already high, Smith finished the match in style, smashing Gus Atkinson for a final-ball six. He roared in celebration, pumped up with adrenaline, and shared an energetic moment with teammate Jake Weatherald. The shot, a clean pull over the leg side, signaled both the victory and Smith’s dominance in that fiery mini-battle.

Mitchell Starc was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance, taking eight wickets and contributing a valuable 77 runs with the bat. It marked his second such award in the ongoing Ashes series. With Australia’s formidable pink-ball record intact, the teams now move to Adelaide for the third Test, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, December 17 at the Adelaide Oval.