Ashes 2025-26: R Ashwin takes a dig at Michael Vaughan after Day 2 prediction goes horribly wrong

After Ben Stokes’ magical spell helped England come back strongly on the opening day of the first Ashes Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Michael Vaughan predicted that the Three Lions would bat long on Day 2 and get themselves into a dominant position in the encounter. However, the former England skipper’s prediction turned out to be way off as Australia wrapped up proceedings with a phenomenal all-round display to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

While England took a 40-run lead in the first innings, they were blown away for 164 in their second attempt with the bat. Australia chased down the modest 205-run target with ease after Travis Head slammed a breathtaking 123 off 83 balls. Marnus Labuschagne also contributed with an unbeaten half-century. Steve Smith and Co. needed just 28.2 overs to reach the target.

“Was that the most dramatic first day of all time? I think it was.. What’s Day 2 going to bring.. My prediction is for England to Bat the day and have full control by the end,” Vaughan had posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with a cheeky tweet after England’s disappointing defeat, teasing Vaughan for his incorrect prediction.

Earlier on Day 2, Scott Boland bowled a brilliant spell as he dismissed four England batters. He will feel relieved with this performance after going wicketless in the first innings and conceding runs at an economy rate of 6.2 in 10 overs. Mitchell Starc also backed up his seven-for in the first innings with a three-wicket haul on Saturday. Brendan Doggett also contributed with three wickets.

The second Test is set to be played from December 4 to 8 at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. Australia, who are the current holders of the Ashes, have managed a 1-0 lead without two of their legendary seamers – Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummin – and this should give them a lot of confidence.