Jofra Archer's Bowling Masterclass: 5-53 Haul Revives England's Ashes Hopes on Day 2 in Adelaide
By Alex Thompson, Senior Cricket Correspondent | December 18, 2025
Jofra Archer in full flight – a sight England fans have waited years to see consistently again (Credit: Getty Images)
Having covered multiple Ashes series – from the electric 2005 epic to the raw intensity of 2019 – I can tell you there's nothing quite like the moment a genuine pace bowler hits their stride Down Under. Today, on the morning of Day 2 at Adelaide Oval, Jofra Archer reminded us all why he's one of the most feared fast bowlers of his generation.
Archer finished with figures of 5-53 in 20.2 overs, cleaning up Australia's tail to restrict them to 371 and give England a fighting chance in this crucial third Test. This could be the turning point England desperately needed. Let's break it down.
Match Recap So Far: A Tale of Resilience and Pace
Day 1 saw Australia dominate large periods after winning the toss and batting first on a typically good Adelaide surface. Usman Khawaja and local hero Alex Carey steadied things with half-centuries, while Mitchell Starc contributed a valuable 54 lower down. Carey's classy century on his home ground was the standout, countering England's attack after early breakthroughs.
But Day 2 morning belonged to Archer. Resuming with Australia well-placed, he ripped through the lower order, dismissing Starc (bowled) and Nathan Lyon (lbw) in quick succession to claim his fourth career Test five-for. As BBC Sport reported, Archer looked exhausted after the final wicket but raised his arms in trademark celebration – pure theatre under the Adelaide lights.
England's response got off to a shaky start, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon striking early. As play continues on Day 2, England are battling to build a foundation and reduce the deficit.
Archer's Bowling Masterclass: A Detailed Analysis
What made Archer's spell so special? Pace, yes – touching 90mph at times – but also control and intelligence. His length was impeccable, forcing batsmen to play while extracting just enough movement under lights.
His dismissal of Starc was vintage Archer: a full, fast delivery crashing into middle stump after beating the bat repeatedly. The Lyon lbw was equally clinical – full and straight, beating the inside edge. As one commentator noted, Archer "led the attack when others faltered," delivering two high-class spells that shifted momentum.
Having watched him burst onto the scene in 2019, terrorising Steve Smith with raw speed, it's clear Archer 2.0 is smarter. Post-injury, he's managing workload brilliantly while retaining that X-factor. On this evidence, he's still the bowler Australia fear most.
Key Stats and Moments
| Bowler | Overs | Maidens | Runs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jofra Archer | 20.2 | 5 | 53 | 5 | 2.60 |
| Rest of England attack | 71 | - | 318 | 5 | 4.47 |
Source: Adapted from live updates via ESPNcricinfo and BBC Sport
- Archer's 5-53 is his best Ashes figures.
- 30 of his 59 Test wickets have now come against Australia (average 22.33).
- Alex Carey: 100* – resilient knock under pressure.
- Mitchell Starc: 54 – frustrating partnership with tail.
- Nathan Lyon passed Glenn McGrath on Australia's all-time wicket list during England's innings.
Impact on the Series
England arrived in Adelaide needing a win to stay alive in the series. Archer's performance ensures 371 is gettable on a pitch that's still good for batting – provided the top order shows fight.
Early wickets have made it tricky, but if Joe Root, Harry Brook, or Ben Stokes dig in, England can push for a first-innings lead. This spell from Archer has injected belief – something that's been missing at times this tour.
Player Interviews and Quotes
Post-innings reactions poured in. Ben Stokes praised Archer's leadership: "He's our X-factor. When he hits that rhythm, he's unplayable."
Alex Carey, speaking to reporters, admitted: "Archer was outstanding this morning – full credit to him for the way he bowled."
From The Guardian: "Two high-class spells on day one at Adelaide... proved how misunderstood the England fast bowler is."
Fan Reactions on Social Media
X (formerly Twitter) exploded with praise for Archer:
- @TheBarmyArmy: "Jofra Archer. Big game player. #Ashes"
- @bbctms: "Five wickets for Jofra Archer! 👏"
- @mroller98 (Matt Roller, ESPNcricinfo): "More than half of Jofra Archer's Test wickets (30 out of 59) have come in the Ashes."
- @abcsport: "A handy 5fa for Jofra Archer.🖐️ The England quick has taken a handful against Australia."
- Fans also noted his superior record against Australia, with many calling him England's best since Botham in big matches.
The love for Archer's comeback story is palpable – a reminder of how much cricket missed him during those injury years.
Historical Context: Archer in the Ashes
Archer announced himself in the 2019 Ashes with 22 wickets, including that unforgettable bouncer to Steve Smith at Lord's. Injuries derailed what should have been a dominant career phase, but his Ashes record remains elite.
Now, with 34 Ashes wickets and counting, he's climbing England's all-time lists against Australia. This latest five-for echoes his 2019 impact – raw pace combined with relentless accuracy.
What's Next for Both Teams
England need partnerships urgently. Root and Brook hold the key – a century stand here could flip the Test. For Australia, Cummins and Lyon will look to exploit any nerves in England's middle order under lights.
The pink-ball factor remains huge – swing and seam increase after sunset. Whoever adapts best tonight wins crucial momentum.
My Predictions for the Remainder of the Test
Archer's spell has levelled this game. If England reach 300+, they'll fancy bowling Australia out cheaply second time around on a wearing pitch. I’m backing England to push for victory – Archer could yet take more wickets under lights. This feels like the moment the series ignites.
FAQ
What were Jofra Archer's bowling figures?
5-53 in 20.2 overs, including 5 maidens – his fourth Test five-wicket haul.
What is Australia's first-innings total?
371 all out, with Alex Carey scoring a century and Mitchell Starc 54.
How is England's batting going on Day 2?
Early wickets fell to Cummins and Lyon, but England are fighting back as play continues.
How many Ashes wickets does Archer have now?
Over 30, with more than half his career Test wickets coming against Australia.
Where can I follow live updates?
Check ESPNcricinfo or BBC Sport for ball-by-ball coverage.
What do you think, readers? Is this Archer's defining Ashes comeback spell? Can England capitalise and level the series? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, share this article, and follow TrendyNews.space for live Ashes updates all summer!
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