Ashes 2013-14: England aren’t shell-shocked, insists Michael Carberry

Michael Carberry insists England aren’t “shell-shocked” despite a dramatic collapse from 82-2 to 136 all out on day two of the first Test.

England dismissed Australia for 295 in the morning session, before Alastair Cook and Carberry made a solid start to their innings until the captain fell for 13 runs.

Even then, Jonathan Trott looked to have settled but after the South African-born batsman was dismissed, the tourists lost a cluster of wickets in quick succession.

Mitchell Johnson finished with figures of 4-61, whilst Ryan Harris also impressed with 3-28, and Australia completed the day at the Gabba with a lead of 224 runs and all their wickets intact.

“I wouldn’t say we’re shell-shocked, we’re pros but when it doesn’t go to plan there’s always a little bit of disappointment. To say we are struggling is a bit strong,” Carberry told BBC Sports.

“For any batsmen the first few balls are going to be the toughest of your innings. England players are proven world-class performers and I’m positive we’ll come back strongly.”

On the performance of the Australia attack, the England opener added: “It was a disappointing session just before tea that has swung the game a little bit. Credit to the Aussie bowlers, they bowled really well.

“Mitchell is a world-class performer. In terms of pace he’s up there with some of the quickest. More importantly, he put the ball in the right area.”