By: The Trek News Desk
The opening day of the first Ashes Test in Perth unfolded as a spectacle of relentless fast bowling, with 19 wickets tumbling and momentum swinging wildly between the two sides. The standout performance came from England captain Ben Stokes, whose electrifying spell of five wickets in just six overs dragged Australia to 123/9 by stumps, giving England a crucial opening-day advantage.
England were earlier bowled out for 172, and Australia’s reply began on the worst possible note.
Jofra Archer, returning with venom, struck with his second delivery to remove Jake Weatherald for a duck, before sending Marnus Labuschagne (9) back soon after.
Stokes Turns the Match on Its Head
Just when Australia appeared to settle through Travis Head (21) and Cameron Green (24), Stokes stormed in and ripped the innings apart.
He removed Head, Green, Alex Carey (26), Mitchell Starc (12), and Scott Boland (0) in quick succession, leaving the hosts rattled and reeling inside 39 overs.
Starc Shreds England Early
The day had begun with Australia firmly on top, thanks to a ferocious spell from Mitchell Starc, who produced figures of 7/58 and dismantled England’s top order.
Starc struck in the very first over by removing Zak Crawley for a duck, before dismissing Joe Root without scoring, a double blow that left England in shock.
By lunch, England had stumbled to 105/4, but Harry Brook’s 52 and Ollie Pope’s 46 ensured the visitors battled their way to a respectable total.
A High-Octane Start to the Ashes
Opting to bat first on a lively, bounce-heavy surface, Stokes signalled England’s intent and confidence in their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach. The visitors have arrived in Australia with renewed belief, looking to claim an Ashes series Down Under for the first time in 15 years.
With both teams fielding pace-heavy attacks and the pitch offering plenty to the quick bowlers, the opening day delivered the fiery contest fans had been hoping for, and England, for now, walks away slightly ahead.
Source: News Agencies
