Ashes: Weatherald, Smith lead Australian charge at Brisbane

Australia have taken take a 44-run lead over England with four wicket still in hand.

Half centuries from Jake Weatherald (72), Marnus Labuschagne (65) and Steve Smith (61) helped Australia take a 44-run lead over England as the hosts reached 378 for six when stumps were drawn on Day 2 of the Pink Ball cricket Test in Brisbane,

Earlier, England were all out for 334 with Joe Root remaining unbeaten on 138.

Resuming at 325 for nine, Root added nine to his overnight score with No.11 Joffra Archer falling for a career-best 38, caught brilliantly by a diving Labuschagne in the deep to end a valuable 10th-wicket partnership of 70.

Mitchell Starc was the pick of Aussie bowlers with figures of six for 75.

In reply, Australia were cruising at 291 for three before Brydon Carse removed Cameron Green (45) and Smith (61) in four deliveries to rekindle hope as England's short-ball tactics paid off.

Alex Carey, who was dropped first ball and again on 25, was not-out 46 with Michael Neser on 15 at close of play on the second Test of the five match series.

Australia are leading the series 1-0 after having won the first Test at Perth which ended in less than two days.

(with inputs from agencies)