Ashes Series 2025: England vs Australia A Thrilling Start

Overview

The opening day of the Ashes Test in Perth delivered high drama as England posted 172 before being bowled out, while Australian batsmen struggled under England relentless pace attack. A total of 19 wickets fell, setting the tone for a gripping series.

Mitchell Starc in action during Day 1 of the Ashes Test 2025 in Perth.

The first day of the Ashes series in Australia turned out to be a spectacular showcase of fast bowling, with batsmen from both sides finding it challenging to settle at the crease. By the end of Day 1, a staggering 19 wickets had fallen, signaling a thrilling start to the series.

England First Innings: 172 All Out

In Perth, English captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat. However, Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc wreaked havoc, dismissing the entire English side for just 172 runs in just two sessions.

Starc produced a brilliant performance, claiming 7 wickets, while Brandon Doggett took 2 and Cameron Green contributed 1 wicket.

Australia was missing two key bowlers, Josh Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins, due to injuries. In Cummins’ absence, Steve Smith led the team.

Notable English Performances

Harry Brook top scored with 52 runs.

Ollie Pope contributed 46 runs.

Ben Duckett added 21 runs.

Ben Stokes and Brayden Cross were out for 6 each.

Zak Crawley and Joe Root were dismissed without scoring.

England were bowled out in 32.5 overs, setting a moderate total. Despite the low score, Australian batsmen found it equally challenging to face England bowlers.

Australia First Innings Struggles

Chasing 172, Australian openers Jack Waddell and Marnus Labuschagne began cautiously. Waddell fell in the second ball of the first over, caught by Jofra Archer.

Similar to England, Australian batsmen struggled under pressure, losing wickets at regular intervals.

Alex Carey scored 26.

Cameron Green added 24 runs.

Travis Head made 17.

Captain Steve Smith scored 17, while Usman Khawaja managed only 2 runs.

England bowling hero Ben Stokes took 5 wickets, with Brayden Cross and Jofra Archer claiming 2 wickets each.

By the end of Day 1, Australia had reached 121 for 9, leaving the match wide open and setting the stage for an exciting second day.