Australia built a 44-run lead in the Brisbane Ashes Test after reaching 378 for six at stumps on Day 2. Weatherald, Labuschagne and Smith scored half-centuries, while England’s dropped catches and erratic bowling allowed the hosts to capitalize

Brisbane: Australia took a 44-run first-innings lead after two days of the second Ashes cricket Test, with the top order all getting starts on Friday to help the hosts reach 378 for six at stumps.

Five dropped catches and some wayward bowling dented England and allowed the batters to capitalize.

Opener Jake Weatherald led from the start of Australia’s innings with 72 from 78 balls, Marnus Labuschagne (65) completed back-to-back half centuries, and stand-in skipper Steve Smith made 61 as bat dominated ball despite some uneven bounce at the Gabba.

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