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
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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.
Photo: Getty Images
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
Australia’s bowling unit deserves credit for their perseverance and effectiveness. They capitalized on the opportunities presented to them, despite the early drop of Brook by Alex Carey.
In response to England’s total, Australia began their innings on a cautious note. Despite losing Warner early to Woakes, Khawaja, and Labuschagne, Warner showed composure and resilience. The pitch offered ample assistance to the seamers, but Australia managed to navigate through the challenges and end the day in a strong position.
As the final Test unfolds, there is much to look forward to. The outcome of this match will not impact the Ashes series result, but it carries weight in terms of overall momentum and confidence leading into future competitions. For Australia, a commanding performance here will reinforce their status as the World Test Championship winners and send a strong message to their rivals.
Score Summary
Australia 61 for 1 (Khawaja 26*, Labuschagne 2*) trail England 283 (Brook 85, Starc 4-82) by 222 runs
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