Ashes 2025-26 [WATCH]: Marnus Labuschagne plucks a screamer to dismiss Jofra Archer on Day 2 of Gabba Test

Day 2 of the second Ashes Test in Perth delivered a moment of sheer brilliance, courtesy of Australian star Marnus Labuschagne. While England hoped to extend their first-innings total, it was Labuschagne’s extraordinary athleticism that stole the spotlight, helping Australia wrap up the visitors for 334. The highlight came when Marnus sprinted, dived, and plucked a sensational catch to dismiss Jofra Archer—an effort that instantly went viral and ignited the home crowd.

Marnus Labuschagne’s stunning catch gets rid of Anrich Nortje

The moment unfolded on just the second ball of the 77th over. Fast bowler Brendan Doggett banged in a short delivery aimed at Archer’s ribs. The England pacer responded with a firm pull, striking the ball flat towards deep backward square leg. For a split second, it appeared the shot would fall safely in front of the fielder.

But Labuschagne had other plans. Reacting with lightning speed, he covered ground to his right and launched himself full-length, stretching out both hands. Inches before the ball could hit the turf, he scooped it cleanly with his right hand, completing what may go down as one of the catches of the series. The Australian dugout erupted, the commentators were left stunned, and Doggett finally found his name in the wickets column thanks to Marnus’ magic.

Here’s the video:

ONE OF THE ALL-TIME SCREAMERS FROM MARNUS LABUSCHAGNE!#Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/nF2AkvCDtZ

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 5, 2025

Also SEE: Photo Gallery: WAGS of top England cricketers at the Ashes 2025-26

England fold quickly; Joe Root stands tall

England, resuming at 325/9, managed to add only nine runs before being bowled out for 334. The final wicket came courtesy of Labuschagne’s brilliance, leaving star batter Joe Root stranded on a magnificent 138 not out. Root’s masterclass held the innings together, but the lack of support from the tail prevented England from pushing their total further on a surface offering decent bounce. Australia’s bowlers maintained discipline early in the morning, ensuring England’s lower order had no room to flourish.

Australia begin their reply with confidence

In response, Australia capitalised on ideal batting conditions and started strongly, reaching 111/1 in just 19 overs, reducing the deficit to 223 runs. Openers Travis Head and Jake Weatherald provided momentum with an energetic 77-run stand.

Head, who looked set for a substantial score, was dismissed for 33 when Brydon Carse found a breakthrough for England. The wicket brought relief for the visitors, but the Australians continued to dominate.

Weatherald anchored the innings beautifully, bringing up a fluent half-century and remaining unbeaten on 52 at the end of the session. At the other end, Labuschagne—already the star of the day—remained solid on 21*, ensuring Australia stayed well within striking distance.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26: Alex Carey grabs a brilliant catch while running backwards to remove Gus Atkinson on Day 1 of the Pink-Ball Test