Cricket Update | First day of first Ashes Test

An extraordinary first day of the test series in Perth

Captain Ben Stokes claimed five wickets as England’s fast bowlers ripped through Australia on a gripping opening day of the Ashes.

Author | Peter Jones

Stadium | Perth Stadium

On a lively, fast surface in Perth, England were skittled for 172 before hitting back to leave Australia reeling at 123 for nine. The frenetic contest more than matched the anticipation surrounding one of the most eagerly awaited Ashes series in recent years.

England chose to bat after winning the toss, only to find themselves in early trouble. Zak Crawley departed for a duck in the first over, undone by Mitchell Starc, who delivered a superb spell to finish with figures of 7 for 58. Harry Brook struck 52 and Ollie Pope added 46, but England’s innings unravelled as the final five wickets tumbled for 12 runs, ending in just 32.5 overs. It was the shortest first innings of an Ashes Test in Australia for more than a century.

England’s five-strong pace attack responded with the quickest collective effort by an England side since records began 18 years ago. Jofra Archer was outstanding and unfortunate not to collect more than two wickets, while Brydon Carse removed Australia captain Steve Smith. 

Stokes brought himself on as the fifth seamer, stifling any sign of resistance before cutting through the tail. Returning after a shoulder injury in July, he secured his second five-wicket haul in successive Tests.

READ MORE | First Test news and stories

By the close of an extraordinary day that saw 19 wickets fall, England held a lead of 49 and a genuine chance to take a 1-0 advantage in the series.

An opening day that will be remembered forever

After weeks of anticipation, debate and pointed words, cricket’s oldest rivalry delivered once again. This was an Ashes opening day that will linger long in the memory.

England have not threatened an away Ashes triumph for 14 years, yet by the close on Friday Australia were left in no doubt that this series promises a serious contest.

That... was crazy 😅

🏏 Runs: 295
☝️ Wickets: 19

What a way to kick-start the series! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/tvMvjW3yvU

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 21, 2025

A lively pitch added its own drama, as did the deafening noise generated by more than 51,000 inside the vast Perth Stadium. What will endure, though, was the pace, bite and precision of the bowling on both sides.

Stokes looked to precedent at the toss, with all five previous Tests at this venue won by the side opting to bat. England’s batting fell short of expectations, but their bowlers responded with a performance of real authority. There were similarities with the last Test played here, when 17 wickets fell on the opening day. A year ago, India were dismissed for 150 before surging through Australia for 104, eventually securing a 295-run victory.

England’s bowlers have hauled them firmly into this contest; the onus now shifts to the batters on day two. Stokes and his side are one composed innings away from taking a 1-0 lead.