ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights: In a match that holds significant importance despite the Ashes series result being decided, Australia made a strong statement on the opening day of the final Test at The Oval. Having secured the coveted urn earlier, they faced criticism after the draw in Manchester due to rain. However, their bowlers responded with a commanding performance to restrict England to 283 in the first innings of the fifth test at the Oval.
ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights & Report
The day began with England continuing their aggressive approach from the first Test, as Harry Brook played a scintillating knock of 85. Despite the overcast conditions and bowler-friendly pitch, England managed to reach a competitive total, aided by Australia dropping five catches during the innings.
Also, Read: ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights
The standout performer for Australia was Mitchell Starc, who displayed his resilience even after injuring his shoulder at Emirates Old Trafford. Finishing with 4 for 82, Starc’s series tally reached an impressive 19 wickets, the best he has achieved in any of his four overseas Ashes series. Alongside him, Pat Cummins showcased his brilliance, although his figures of 1 for 66 didn’t fully reflect his impact on the game.
Australia’s innings was not without its challenges, as opener David Warner fell to Chris Woakes for the third consecutive time. However, as per the ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the ship, guiding Australia to 61 for 1 at the close of play.
While the Ashes had already been decided at Old Trafford, this final Test remains crucial for both teams. A series result of 3-1 or 2-2 holds vastly different implications. For Australia, who held a 2-0 advantage before their defeat at Headingley and a rain-enforced draw in Manchester, it is an opportunity to assert their dominance unequivocally.
Also, Read: ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights
England began the day strongly, reaching 62 for 0 inside the opening hour. However, Australia’s bowlers soon found their rhythm, and England’s innings began to unravel. In light of the ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights, A key moment came when Warner granted Ben Duckett a lifeline at slip on 30, but Australia’s successful DRS review resulted in a much-needed wicket.
Despite the batting struggles, Brook’s innings provided hope for England. He displayed aggressive stroke play, scoring boundaries against Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Starc. Unfortunately for him, Starc got his revenge, taking Brook’s wicket just before tea, and England’s batting order faced a familiar challenge.
England captain Joe Root fell to Hazlewood, and the pressure mounted as Australia continued to create opportunities, although they did concede runs at a rapid pace. England’s batting lineup seemed to unravel further, losing wickets in quick succession. Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal against Hazlewood and a stunning delivery from Starc that removed Ben Stokes further compounded their troubles.
Also, Read: ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights
For more, check out: ENG vs AUS Ashes 5th Test Day 1 Highlights
Get ICC World Cup 2023 Live Score & ICC World Cup 2023 Team Squads along with ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 at IceCric.News and Follow for Live Updates – Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.