A breathtaking display of fast bowling dominated the opening day of the Ashes series in Perth, with England emerging with a significant advantage after a remarkable 19 wickets fell during the day’s play.
The visitors were dismissed for just 172 in their first innings, a collapse that appeared to hand Australia the early momentum. However, the match was completely transformed when England’s pace attack produced a devastating response, reducing the hosts to 123 for nine by stumps.
Ben Stokes spearheaded the fightback, claiming five wickets for 23 runs in a commanding spell. His performance, supported by hostile bowling from Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse, left Australia’s batting lineup bruised and bewildered. The home side now trails by 49 runs heading into the second day.
Australia’s innings began disastrously with debutant Jake Weatherald dismissed for a two-ball duck. Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne provided brief resistance, but both fell to England’s relentless pace barrage. Smith received particular attention from the bowlers, taking several blows to the body before edging behind.
Earlier, Mitchell Starc had given Australia hope with an outstanding seven-wicket haul, his best figures in Test cricket. The left-arm quick exploited the conditions perfectly, dismantling England’s top order including key batsmen Zak Crawley and Joe Root for ducks.
Yet England’s response with the ball proved even more destructive. Their five-pronged pace attack maintained constant pressure, with even wicketless bowlers Gus Atkinson and Mark Wood contributing to the hosts’ discomfort through sheer speed and aggression.
The dramatic opening day sets up an intriguing contest, with England well positioned to press home their advantage when play resumes.
