Neser hails Root and Head brilliance on Day 2 in Sydney Test

Australia’s bowlers struck at crucial moments on Day 2 of the Sydney Test against England, with Michael Neser claiming four wickets in the first innings to keep England under pressure. His standout moment came with the dismissal of Joe Root, who was the highest scorer for the visitors, scoring a masterful 160.

Root, who brought up his 41st Test hundred earlier in the day, is never easy to dislodge, and Neser was quick to acknowledge the challenge posed by the England great.

“He's a tricky one to bowl to, especially when he's in that touch," he said after the end of day's play.

"Your margin of error is very small. He seems to manipulate the ball very well off the stumps. Even then, when you go a bit wider in the channel, he works you off down to third man so well.

“He's a class player. That's why he's going to go down as one of the all-time greats,” he added

Neser had a clear plan when the opportunity to dismiss Root arose.

“I haven't bowled a bouncer to him in ages and I think I might surprise him if I try to bowl a bouncer there. And it's one of those rare occasions where it actually came off and worked,” he explained.

The plan paid off with an athletic caught and bowled, an aspect of the game Neser prides himself on.

“The chances don't come very often, so you got to try to take everything. I've always prided myself on catching.”

Michael Neser celebrates the dismissal of Joe Root on Day 2 at the SCG. // Getty Images

Meanwhile, as Australia launched their response with the bat, Travis Head once again showed the intent that has made him a consistent performer in this series. Neser reflected on Head’s approach, drawing on their shared history.

“Knowing him from his younger days, he's still figuring out his game, but at the moment, he seems real clear what he's doing.

"Every ball he's looking to score. His hand eye (coordination) is amazing. You think you've beaten him with the ball and all a sudden he's slapped you through point for four.

"We all love the way Travis bats because the scoreboard seems to move.”

At the close of play on Day 2, Head remains unbeaten on 91, alongside Neser on 1, as Australia look to press on in the morning and try to build a strong first-innings lead.

Ashes schedule:

First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21-22 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Second Test: Gabba, December 4-7 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17-21 (Australia won by 82 runs)
Fourth Test: MCG, December 26-30 (England won by 4 wickets)
Fifth Test: SCG, January 4-8