The opening day of the first Ashes Test turned into a fast-paced thriller as both England and Australia battled through a flurry of wickets, reviews, and momentum swings. A crowd of 51,531 witnessed a tense day where bowlers from both sides held the upper hand.

England’s Innings – Quick Runs but Regular Wickets 

England started the day positively but was soon pegged back by disciplined Australian bowling. The first major moment came in the 6.4 over, when Ben Duckett was given out LBW after a review upheld the on-field decision.

Despite the shaky start, England reached 50 in 10.6 overs, but at 50/3, they took drinks with OJ Pope on 22 and Harry Brook on 3.

A solid partnership followed as Pope and Brook added 50 runs for the fourth wicket, giving England brief control.

Another review drama unfolded at 19.6, when Pope was declared out LBW—umpire’s call confirming his dismissal.

England reached:

100 in 22.1 overs

Lunch at 105/4 (Brook 28*, Stokes 4*)

Harry Brook was the standout performer, scoring a fluent 50 from 58 balls, including 5 boundaries and a six.

However, Australia hit back strongly. Reviews continued to play a role:

25.5 overs: Australia reviewed and got JL Smith out.

29.5 overs: Another review went in Australia’s favour as Brook was dismissed.

From there, England collapsed, losing wickets rapidly and were bowled out for 172 in just 32.5 overs, with Archer the last man dismissed for 0.

Australia’s Reply – England Strike Early

England came out fired up with the ball. In just 0.2 overs, they reviewed and won an LBW decision against Jake Weatherald, giving them the perfect start.

At Tea, Australia were 15/1 in 10 overs, with Labuschagne on 6 and Smith on 7.

England kept pushing with:

Another successful review at 11.5 overs, dismissing Labuschagne LBW.

At 23.2 overs, Australia crossed 50 runs but continued losing wickets.

By the drinks break, Australia were 53/4, and England tightened their grip with relentless bowling.

Australia eventually reached:

100 in 32.6 overs

123/9 at stumps, with Nathan Lyon unbeaten on 3 and Doggett yet to score.