Ashes 2025–26 [WATCH]: Mitchell Starc castles Ben Stokes with absolute jaffa on Day 3 of Adelaide Test

A moment of fast-bowling brilliance from Mitchell Starc turned the tide decisively in Australia’s favour on Day 3 of the Adelaide Test, as the left-armer bowled a sensational delivery to dismiss England captain Ben Stokes and halt a threatening partnership during the Ashes 2025–26 series.

Mitchell Starc floors Ben Stokes with a ripper

Coming in the first ball of the 85th over, Starc unleashed a 143.6 kmph wobble-seam delivery that nipped back sharply. Stokes, attempting to force the ball through the off-side, failed to account for the late movement. A sizeable gap opened between bat and pad, allowing the ball to sneak through and crash into the off stump. The crowd erupted as Starc roared in celebration, punching the air after breaking a crucial century stand.

Stokes, meanwhile, was visibly furious with himself. He jumped in disbelief at the crease, tossed his bat skywards, and walked back angrily, knowing he had missed out on a possible match-defining hundred. The dismissal, captured on video and widely shared online, instantly became one of the standout moments of the series.

Here’s the video:

OH MY WORD WHAT A SEED FROM MITCH STARC!#Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/1z4idDsklT

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 19, 2025

England bowled Out for 286 after fighting knock

Despite Starc’s breakthrough, England showed resilience earlier in the session, eventually being bowled out for 286. Captain Stokes played a vital hand, scoring a gritty 83 runs, anchoring the innings and leading from the front when England were under pressure.

He found valuable support from Jofra Archer, who contributed an important 51, ensuring England avoided a collapse and remained competitive in the contest. However, Australia’s disciplined bowling attack prevented the visitors from pushing on to a more imposing total.

For the hosts, skipper Pat Cummins led admirably with the ball, finishing with figures of 3/69, while Scott Boland was equally impressive, claiming 3/45 with his trademark accuracy and relentless line and length. Their combined efforts ensured Australia secured a crucial first-innings lead of 85 runs.

Also WATCH: Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes involve in heated argument on Day 2 of Adelaide Test | Ashes 2025-26

Australia extend advantage before Tea

Australia carried their momentum into the second innings, batting with authority and composure. By Tea on Day 3, the hosts had moved to 119/2, extending their overall lead to a commanding 204 runs.

Travis Head once again proved his value in Adelaide conditions, remaining unbeaten on 68, playing with freedom and intent. At the other end, Usman Khawaja provided stability, sitting pretty on 27 not out, as the pair frustrated the English bowlers with a confident and controlled partnership.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26 – Mitchell Starc loses cool and demands ‘sacking’ of snicko technology after Jamie Smith incident on Day 2 of Adelaide Test